Following the Pahalgam attack, India has taken significant steps against Pakistan, including the immediate suspension of the 1960 Indus Water Treaty. This has stirred strong reactions from Pakistan. Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, called for a National Security Committee meeting on Thursday. Meanwhile, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif emphasized that Pakistan hopes India does not execute any irresponsible actions like surgical strikes.
In his conversation with Hum News, Asif stated that any pressure or attack from India would be unfortunate, but Pakistan would respond decisively. He reminded everyone of the robust counter-response Pakistan provided during the last airspace violation, highlighting the preparedness to respond if required. However, he expressed a desire to avoid presumptive conclusions and hoped India would not opt for irresponsible measures like surgical strikes.
When queried about the potential beneficiaries of the attack coinciding with US Vice President JD Vance's presence in India, Asif deferred to the Foreign Office, indicating that such questions fall under their purview. He added that there are more than 700,000 Indian troops in Kashmir, questioning their presence.
In parallel, Pakistan's Foreign Minister noted that in light of India's statements following the Kashmir attack, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for the National Security Committee meeting on Thursday, April 24.
On April 22, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam resulted in the loss of 26 innocent tourists' lives, prompting India to take swift, decisive actions. Subsequently, a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security was convened on Wednesday evening, where Foreign Secretary Vikram Mistri briefed the press on resolutions passed during the meeting.
Five critical decisions were made against Pakistan during this meeting. The first being the closure of Wagah-Attari border, ceasing limited movement between the two nations. The second involves shutting down the Indian embassy present in Pakistan. The third decision involves halting the Indus Water Treaty, which will have significant consequences for Pakistan. The fourth decision mandates that all Pakistani diplomats in India must depart within 48 hours. Lastly, visas will henceforth not be issued to Pakistani nationals seeking entry to India.
