Tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists. In the latest development, Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has claimed that Islamabad possesses “credible intelligence” suggesting that India is planning a military strike within the next 24 to 36 hours.
Tarar accused India of using the attack, which occurred near the popular tourist town of Pahalgam, as a “false pretext” to justify military aggression. “Any such military adventurism by India would be responded to assuredly and decisively,” he warned, signaling a potential confrontation between the two long-time rivals.
The attack, the deadliest on civilians in the disputed region in two decades, has reignited tensions in Kashmir — a territory claimed by both countries but administered separately. While India has not officially named the group responsible, authorities allege that Pakistani nationals were involved and have detained over 1,500 people for questioning.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed justice, saying the perpetrators will be “punished beyond their imagination” and that the country will pursue them “to the ends of the earth.” Though initial reports suggested the Resistance Front an affiliate of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba claimed responsibility, the group later denied involvement.
Among the four suspects named by Indian police, three have been identified two reportedly Pakistani nationals and one local resident of Indian-administered Kashmir. Authorities have demolished homes belonging to at least 10 suspected militants as the investigation intensifies.
The region, already volatile due to decades of insurgency, has seen intermittent small-arms fire exchanged across the Line of Control in recent days. Historical precedent has only fueled concerns, as India launched airstrikes inside Pakistan in 2016 and 2019 following similar attacks.
With both nations maintaining significant military presence along the border and global powers closely watching, the coming hours could prove crucial in determining whether the region plunges into yet another crisis. The international community is likely to call for restraint as the possibility of escalation looms large.
