Islamabad, April 24, 2025 — In a significant escalation of tensions following the recent Pahalgam incident, Pakistan has announced a series of retaliatory measures against India. These include the immediate closure of the Wagah-Attari border crossing, suspension of airspace for Indian airlines, and a stern warning that any attempt by India to divert water under the Indus Waters Treaty will be considered an “act of war.”
The decisions were made during a meeting of Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC), chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in response to India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and other diplomatic actions.
“Any attempt to stop or divert the flow of water belonging to Pakistan as per the Indus Waters Treaty… will be considered an act of war and responded with full force across the complete spectrum of national power,” stated the NSC.
Key Measures Announced by Pakistan:
- Closure of Wagah-Attari Border: The primary land crossing between India and Pakistan has been shut down, halting all cross-border transit.
- Airspace Suspension: Pakistan has closed its airspace to all Indian-owned or operated airlines.
- Trade Suspension: All trade with India, including through third countries, has been suspended.
- Diplomatic Staff Reduction: The Indian High Commission in Islamabad is to reduce its staff to 30 members by April 30.
- Expulsion of Indian Military Advisors: Indian defense, naval, and air advisors in Islamabad have been declared persona non grata and must leave by April 30.
- Visa Revocations: All visas issued to Indian nationals under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme have been suspended, excluding those for Sikh pilgrims.
These actions follow India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Wagah-Attari border, and expulsion of Pakistani military advisors from New Delhi.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, has been a cornerstone of India-Pakistan relations, surviving multiple conflicts. citeturn0search32 Its suspension marks a significant deterioration in bilateral ties.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating situation, urging both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further deterioration of regional stability.
As tensions rise, the potential for further diplomatic and military confrontations looms, underscoring the need for immediate de-escalation efforts.
