India has taken a series of strong diplomatic and strategic measures in response to the deadly Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people. The Indian government summoned Pakistan’s top diplomat in New Delhi to express its protest. It also closed the Attari-Wagah border crossing, the main land link between the two countries, with immediate effect. Additionally, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, which previously facilitated water sharing between the two nations. As part of its response, India expelled Pakistani military advisers and reduced the staff strength of its High Commission in Islamabad from 55 to 30. Furthermore, India cancelled all visas issued to Pakistani nationals under the SAARC visa exemption programme.
In retaliation, Pakistan has announced a range of countermeasures. Islamabad confirmed the impending closure of the Wagah border, although it stated that it would remain open until April 30. The Pakistani government also ordered all Indian citizens, with the exception of Sikh pilgrims, to leave the country within 48 hours. Following India’s move, Pakistan suspended all visas issued to Indian nationals under the SAARC programme and similarly reduced the staff of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to 30. Moreover, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian aircraft and suspended all trade activities with India.
