New Delhi: The recent terror attack in Pahalgam has dramatically escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, pushing the two nuclear-armed neighbours towards a dangerous precipice. Reports suggest Pakistan is poised to conduct a surface-to-surface ballistic missile test this week, a move that has further inflamed the already volatile situation. This planned test, confirmed by intelligence sources, adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing crisis.
The escalation didn’t begin with the missile test announcement. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan has engaged in a series of aggressive actions, including numerous ceasefire violations along the LoC. India has reported at least 51 such violations in the week following the attack, prompting a measured but firm response. These violations, coupled with Pakistan’s increased military drills in the Arabian Sea, have significantly heightened concerns about potential further escalation.
India’s response has been multifaceted. New Delhi has downgraded diplomatic ties with Islamabad, expelled Pakistani military attachés, and suspended the crucial 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, a landmark agreement governing the sharing of water resources between the two nations. Furthermore, all formal trade relations with Pakistan have been halted, effectively cutting off economic ties. The highly symbolic Atari-Wagah border crossing has also been closed, underscoring the severity of the current crisis.
The situation is fraught with risk. The planned missile test, combined with Pakistan’s other actions and India’s strong retaliatory measures, creates a volatile environment with the potential for unforeseen consequences. The international community is watching closely as both nations navigate this dangerous period, hoping to prevent further escalation and encourage a return to dialogue and de-escalation. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, in particular, carries significant implications for regional stability and water security. The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this volatile situation.
