India Closes Airspace to Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions Following Pahelgam Attack
India has officially closed its airspace to all Pakistani registered or leased aircraft in a reciprocal move following Pakistan's ban on Indian flights. This decision comes in the wake of escalating tensions between the two nations after the tragic Pahelgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 28 individuals. The airspace closure will remain in effect until May 23, 2025, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently reaffirmed America's commitment to cooperating with India in the fight against terrorism during a phone call with India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar. The discussions centered around the Pahelgam attack, with Jaishankar emphasizing the need to bring those responsible to justice. Rubio also urged both India and Pakistan to work towards de-escalating tensions.
In India, opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take decisive action against the perpetrators of the attack. He stressed that the attackers must be held accountable, stating, "The prime minister must not dillydally... and make it very clear that India is not going to tolerate this type of nonsense."
As tensions mount, Pakistan has continued to provoke India, with reports of small arms fire initiated by Pakistani army posts across the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian army has responded proportionately to these provocations, maintaining a stance of vigilance.
Investigation into the Pahelgam Attack
Investigations into the Pahelgam incident have revealed that the terrorists conducted reconnaissance of various tourist spots in the region, initially planning to strike at Beta Valley before ultimately targeting Baseran Meadow. Pakistani terrorists, aided by local militants and overground workers, executed the attack on April 22 after a two-day trek through the forest.
Diplomatic Responses and Actions
In New Delhi, diplomatic activities have been intensifying, with the Indian External Affairs Minister communicating with several foreign ministers, including those of nine out of ten non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. This outreach aims to counter any potential attempts by Pakistan to raise issues against India in the UN.
Furthermore, India's actions against Pakistan have included freezing the Indus Waters Treaty, closing the Wagah border, and reducing the diplomatic presence by declaring certain Pakistani military diplomats as persona non grata. While these measures signify a tough stance, the situation remains in a state of flux as both nations navigate the complexities of international relations.
Conclusion
As India and Pakistan grapple with heightened tensions following the Pahelgam attack, the closure of airspace marks a significant escalation in their ongoing conflict. The international community watches closely as diplomatic efforts continue, and the need for a measured response to terrorism becomes increasingly urgent. With both countries on high alert, the path forward remains uncertain, and the call for justice reverberates strongly within India.
Stay tuned for further developments on this evolving situation.
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