Tensions have been rising between India and Pakistan ever since the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22. The situation keeps escalating with India accusing Pakistan of violating the ceasefire over the Line of Control, the border that de facto separates the two countries in the Kashmir region. Now, the Indian government has decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. This decision showcases the increasing deterioration of the relationship between the two nuclear powers.
Terrorist attack raises tensions
The tension in the Kashmir region, previously “frozen” through a temporary border called the Line of Control, have seen raisings once more ever since the Indian government, in 2019, revoked its status as an autonomous region. On April 22 a group of terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists in the city of Pahalgam causing 26 casualties. The terrorist attack has been revendicated by the terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, located in Pakistan, and it caused the greatest number of casualities in recent years.
The Indian government accused the Pakistan government of violating the ceasefire along the Line of Control. During the night of the 24th of April, a number of skirmishes broke out along the Line of control. According to Indian authorities, “there have been incidents involving small arms at several points along the Line of Control, initiated by Pakistan.” The Indian authorities further report that “The response was effective” and that “no casualties have been reported”.
Suspension of the Treaty
After the terrorist attack on April 22 and the following rising of tensions between the two countries, the Indian government has decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. The historical treaty signed in 1960 divided the waters of the Indus River between India and Pakistan for 65 years. The Indus Water Treaty, celebrated as the longest treaty between the two countries, persevered through 3 wars (1965,1971, and 1999). Its suspension signifies the impact of the recent tragedy on the Indian leaders.
International Response
Following the terrorist attack the United Nations appealed for “maximum restraint” between India and Pakistan. Meanwhile the U.S. state department spokeperson Tammy Bruce declined answering on a possible mediation by the U.S.
Sources :
After Kashmir attack, India reports exchange of fire with Pakistan : NPR
L’India accusa il Pakistan di aver violato cessate il fuoco | Sky TG24
India e Pakistan a un passo dal conflitto: senza l’intervento degli Stati Uniti, il rischio di escalation è alto – Affaritaliani.it
Tensione tra India e Pakistan dopo l’attentato contro i turisti in Kashmir – Vatican News