Tensions between India and Pakistan have surged after Pakistan accused India of preparing for an imminent military strike. Islamabad claims to have “credible intelligence” that New Delhi is planning an attack within the next 24 to 36 hours, using the recent violence in Kashmir as a pretext. The warning follows a deadly assault in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on 22 April, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists. India has blamed Pakistan-based militants for the attack, a charge Pakistan strongly denies.
Islamabad Issues Stern Warning
Pakistan’s information minister, Attaullah Tarar, addressed the media on Tuesday, stating that India’s allegations about Pakistan’s involvement in the Pahalgam attack are “baseless and concocted.” He declared that any Indian military move would have “catastrophic consequences” for the region and that Pakistan is fully prepared to defend itself. “Pakistan has credible intelligence that India intends carrying out military action against Pakistan in the next 24-36 hours on the pretext of baseless and concocted allegations,” Tarar said. He also called for an independent, neutral investigation into the Kashmir attack and urged the international community to take notice. According to Tarar, the responsibility for any escalation would rest solely with India.
Pakistan’s defence minister, Khawaja Asif, has confirmed that the country is on high alert and has reinforced its military presence along the Line of Control, the de facto border in Kashmir. Reports from the region indicate increased military activity, with both sides conducting air patrols and exchanging sporadic gunfire.
Regional Tensions and Global Concerns
On the Indian side, officials have not confirmed any immediate plans for military action. However, sources suggest that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the military “operational freedom” to respond to the Kashmir attack as it sees fit. Indian security forces have launched extensive operations in Kashmir, detaining over 1,500 people for questioning and demolishing the homes of suspected militants.
The situation has raised concerns internationally, given the history of conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Analysts warn that any miscalculation could quickly escalate into a broader crisis. So far, the international response has been muted, but diplomatic observers are urging both sides to exercise restraint. As military posturing continues and rhetoric intensifies, the risk of escalation remains high, making the coming days critical for peace and stability in the region.
