- India,
- 05-Sep-2025 11:37 AM IST
Shehbaz Sharif: The terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025 has further deepened the already strained relations between India and Pakistan. The attack has led to an increase in diplomatic, military and diplomatic tensions between the two countries. This article analyses the developments following the incident, the reactions of both countries and the status of international intervention.Pahalgam attack and immediate responseThe terror attack in Pahalgam resulted in several civilian and security personnel casualties. India blamed Pakistan-backed terror organisations for the attack and immediately launched "Operation Sindoor", under which action was taken against terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). India claims that this action was a necessary step against terrorism.On the other hand, Pakistan has categorically rejected these allegations and said that its land is not being used for terrorist activities. In response, Pakistan accused India of ceasefire violations on the Line of Control (LoC) and claimed that it shot down two Indian drones.Diplomatic tensions and international mediationAfter the attack, India and Pakistan expelled each other's diplomats. India ordered Pakistani citizens to leave the country and issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for Pakistani flights in Indian airspace, which led to severe restrictions on air traffic between the two countries.Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif spoke to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio over the telephone and accused India of escalating tensions. This was the second time Sharif discussed the issue with Rubio, earlier in May 2025 he had also accused India of provocation. According to news agency Agence France Press, Rubio decided to talk to the foreign ministers of both countries and appeal to reduce tensions.Military tensions and firing on the Line of ControlThe Pakistani army claimed that it discussed with the Indian Army the firing that took place in Kashmir 6 days ago. Pakistani Army spokesman Lieutenant General Ahmed Chaudhry said that the talks took place on ceasefire violations on the Line of Control. On the other hand, the Indian Army reported that it responded to Pakistani firing for the sixth consecutive night. This constant military tension is raising the fear of war between the two countries.The future of India-Pakistan relationsThe Pahalgam attack has further widened the gulf of distrust between the two countries. India believes that Pakistan promotes terrorism, while Pakistan accuses India of regional instability. The international community, especially the US, is trying to reduce this tension, but the rigid policies and military activities of both countries are becoming an obstacle to peace.
