In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan is facing a dual threat as both India and the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) seem to be on the same page, working in unison to destabilize the country’s security and economy. Experts suggest that following recent talks between Pakistan and Kabul, where Afghanistan assured Pakistan that no terrorist group, including TTP, would be allowed to operate from Afghan soil, Pakistan saw a reduction in pressure. However, India, in a bid to maintain its influence in the region, has escalated tensions by instigating the recent Pahalgam incident, which has sparked a media trial against Pakistan.
On April 23, 2025, India initiated a series of unilateral actions, levying baseless allegations against Pakistan and attempting to sabotage the country’s improving security situation and growing economic prospects. India’s aggressive actions also included a unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, the expulsion of Pakistan’s diplomatic staff from India, and the closing of its own embassy in Islamabad.
In response, Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) convened an emergency meeting to discuss the situation. The committee strongly condemned India’s actions, particularly the accusations regarding the Pahalgam incident, describing them as politically motivated, irresponsible, and legally unfounded.
The NSC issued a stern message, underscoring that Kashmir remains a long-standing and unresolved dispute between Pakistan and India, recognised by several United Nations resolutions. Pakistan reaffirmed its support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and condemned India’s oppressive actions, including the abrogation of Kashmir’s special status, which has led to continuous violence in the region.
Pakistan’s Key Measures in Response to India’s Actions:
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Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
Pakistan categorically rejected India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it an illegal and unjustified move. The treaty, which is a legally binding international agreement, was brokered by the World Bank, and India has no right to unilaterally suspend it. Pakistan declared that any attempt to interfere with the flow of water under this agreement will be considered an act of war and will be met with full force. -
Diplomatic and Trade Retaliation
Pakistan responded by expelling all Indian diplomatic staff from Islamabad and significantly reducing the size of India’s diplomatic mission in Pakistan to just 30 staff members. Additionally, Pakistan announced a suspension of all trade activities with India, including trade routes passing through Pakistan to third countries. -
Closure of the Wagah Border and Suspension of SAARC Visa Scheme
In another bold move, Pakistan closed the Wagah border, halting all cross-border travel between India and Pakistan. Furthermore, Pakistan cancelled all visas issued under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), giving Indian nationals 48 hours to leave the country, except for Sikh religious pilgrims.
Pakistan also imposed a ban on Indian airlines, closing its airspace to Indian flights, and firmly reiterated its commitment to protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Experts suggest that India’s actions, coupled with TTP’s ongoing attacks on Pakistan, seem coordinated to destabilise the country. While India appears to be preparing for military confrontations along Pakistan’s eastern borders, the TTP continues to escalate its attacks from the west, supported by external forces. However, military analysts believe that Pakistan’s armed forces are fully prepared to face any such challenges and will not allow its sovereignty to be compromised.
A Stark Warning to India and TTP
While both India and TTP might believe that they can destabilise Pakistan by opening multiple fronts, history has shown that Pakistan has always emerged victorious in defending its sovereignty. Pakistan’s military is on high alert, ready to respond to any threat, whether from external enemies or terrorist organisations. The country’s resilience remains strong, and it has proven time and again that any attempt to undermine its stability will be met with a decisive response.
