Pakistan-India border crossing shut down following Kashmir assault
India takes harsh actions against neighbor Pakistan following Kashmir attacks, alleging support for "cross-border terrorism." Relations between the nuclear-armed countries have plummeted to their lowest in years, sparking concerns about a potential series of escalations, including military conflict.
On Wednesday, India implemented measures such as:
- Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (1960) This treaty governs water-sharing of six rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, Sutlej). The first-ever suspension in the treaty's history jeopardizes water resources for millions in Pakistan.
- Land Border Closure The main land border crossing was shut down, potentially impacting trade and cultural exchange.
These actions come a day after gunmen attacked tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, killing 26, including 25 Indians and one Nepali.
Pakistan vows a symmetrical response to India's actions, as Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar stated. The deadly attack—the deadliest on civilians in the Himalayan region for a quarter-century— has shocked New Delhi, with its shift towards targeting civilians and the tourism industry.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised that perpetrators would be brought to justice, emphasizing an unshakable resolve to combat terrorism.
The gunmen's identities remain unknown, but India appears to be accusing Pakistan, which has only issued a statement of condolence over the attack. Analysts fear the attack increases the risk of a new crisis between India and Pakistan.
Delving into recent events, India has long accused Pakistan of backing forces that destabilize the other. Pakistan denies the allegation, claiming it supports Kashmir's self-determination struggle. Following India's diplomatic moves, Pakistan has convened its National Security Committee and threatened a comprehensive response.
- The escalating conflict between India and Pakistan, following accusations of Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism in Kashmir, has raised concerns about potential military war-and-conflicts.
- The deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir has shifted the general-news agenda, with a focus on crime-and-justice and calls for bringing the perpetrators to justice.
- In retaliation to India's measures, such as the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and land border closure, Pakistan has vowed a symmetrical response, echoing a sentiment expressed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
- Politics surrounding Kashmir and terrorism continue to foster tension, with both countries having different agendas regarding the region's self-determination.
- As diplomatic moves and actions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, the threat of a new crisis, including the potential withdrawal of peace treaties like the Indus Waters Treaty, looms large in the realm of war-and-conflicts and politics.
