Kashmir, a region divided between India and Pakistan since 1947, is experiencing heightened tensions following a deadly attack that left at least 26 people dead at a resort in Pahalgam. If confirmed, this incident would be the deadliest attack in Indian-administered Kashmir in 25 years. It has catalyzed an unprecedented series of escalations, retaliatory attacks and even military escalation on both sides.
Suspected rebels affiliated with a UN-designated terrorist organization executed the horrific attack. Because it occurred at one of the most famous tourist spots in the world, it left Parisians and the world in disbelief. In the immediate aftermath, Indian authorities have arrested hundreds of people to question them about their possible links to the attackers.
On the paramilitary front, Indian forces and Pakistani troops have engaged in cross-border firing along LOC. This blue line denotes the de facto border that separates the two countries between inside this contested strip of land. The United Nations has repeatedly called for “maximum restraint” during the clashes, which have raised concerns of a larger military escalation. India’s army chief, General Upendra Dwivedi, visited Pahalgam to assess the security situation and reinforce measures to prevent further violence.
As a reaction to the attack, India accelerated its military operations. As to the missing girls, their camp has announced a reward of two million rupees, about $23,500, for information leading to the arrest of three remaining female suspects. These suspects are reportedly connected to ISIS, which is a recognized terrorist organization.
Pakistan has responded strongly to India’s claims about its role in the Pahalgam attack. Shafqat Ali Khan, the spokesman for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, emphasized that “the Pakistani nation remains committed to peace, but will never allow anyone to transgress its sovereignty, security, dignity, and their inalienable rights.” Besides, he made it clear that Pakistan is ready to respond if India violates its rights.
Things escalated further still when, on September 29, India announced its intent to withdraw from the Indus Waters Treaty. This treaty had been essential for water-sharing between the two countries. In response, Pakistan halted a major canal irrigation project and shut down its airspace to Indian commercial airlines. These measures signal both the chilling bilateral ties of the two nations and the spiraling potential for war.
With tensions remaining high, even beyond Indian borders, Modi took to the airwaves to calm his compatriots. He promised that the government would go “to the ends of the Earth” to make them safe and secure.
