Pakistan Closes Airspace and Trade with India After Terror Attack

On Thursday, Pakistan closed its airspace to all Indian airlines and stopped trade with India after a terrible attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. This decision came after India announced several strict penalties, which Pakistan is now responding to.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, led a meeting of the National Security Committee in Islamabad, where they decided on these actions. Pakistan strongly disagreed with India’s choice to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, a 1960 agreement about sharing river water. Pakistan said that blocking or changing the flow of water meant for them would be seen as an “act of war,” and they promised to respond firmly.

India’s decisions included stopping the Indus Waters Treaty and closing the only active land border crossing. They also expelled Pakistani military officials from India. This was decided after a shocking attack on civilians in a beautiful area, marking the worst violence in Jammu and Kashmir in almost 20 years.

A statement from Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Office announced that air travel for Indian airlines would be halted immediately. They also suspended all trade with India, including through other countries. Pakistan said that they see water as a crucial national interest and any attempt to take it would not be tolerated.

Moreover, Pakistan stated that they would pause all agreements with India until India stops “supporting terrorism in Pakistan and violating international laws.” Following India’s expulsion of Pakistani military attaches, Pakistan asked Indian defense officials in Islamabad to leave by April 30.

In addition, Pakistan reduced the number of Indian diplomats in Islamabad from April 30 and closed the Wagah border for all crossings. Indians using this crossing were told to return by April 30 as well. Also, all visas given to Indians under a special scheme were canceled, except for Sikh pilgrims.

The National Security Committee emphasized that Pakistan’s Armed Forces are ready to protect the country from any threats. They reminded everyone about India’s past actions and noted that there should be a proper investigation before blaming Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack. Pakistan also claimed they have proof of India supporting terrorism and warned that any threat to their country would lead to strong responses.