India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate Following Pahalgam Attack
Tensions between India and Pakistan have intensified following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people. The attack, carried out in Jammu and Kashmir, has led to strong reactions from Indian leaders, with the government vowing a decisive response against those responsible.
Indian Leaders Issue Strong Statements
Prominent figures, including BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari, have criticized Pakistan, stating that the country has lost faith in its military and fears retaliation from India. Bhandari emphasized that India has yet to launch its full response, but when it does, the masterminds of terror will be “blown to pieces”. Meanwhile, Ramdev, speaking to the media, suggested that Pakistan is on the verge of internal collapse, citing growing independence movements in Pakhtun and Balochistan.
India’s Strategic Measures
The Narendra Modi government has granted the armed forces complete operational freedom to determine the mode, targets, and timing of India’s response. Additionally, India has announced a series of measures, including suspending the Indus Water Treaty, to send a strong message to Pakistan regarding its alleged support for cross-border terrorism.
Pakistan’s Military Challenges
Reports indicate that Pakistan’s military is facing a critical shortage of artillery ammunition, limiting its warfighting capabilities to just four days. The shortage is attributed to recent arms deals with Ukraine, which have depleted Pakistan’s war reserves. The Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF), responsible for supplying the military, has struggled to replenish stock due to outdated production facilities and surging global demand. As a result, Pakistan’s ammunition reserves can sustain only 96 hours of high-intensity conflict, leaving its military vulnerable.
Diplomatic and Military Developments
Pakistan has sought UN Security Council intervention to address the escalating tensions. Additionally, Pakistan’s ambassador to Moscow has formally requested Russia’s assistance in de-escalating the situation. Meanwhile, border skirmishes between Indian and Pakistani forces have been reported along the Line of Control (LoC) since April 24.
As the situation continues to unfold, both nations remain on high alert, with diplomatic efforts underway to prevent further escalation. The international community is closely monitoring developments, as the crisis poses significant implications for regional stability.