Relations between Pakistan and India have reached a critical low following a false flag operation in Indian-occupied Kashmir. In a retaliatory move, India has shut its airspace to Pakistani airlines, just days after Pakistan imposed a similar ban on Indian flights, following a deadly attack in Kashmir that killed 26 tourists.
The Indian government announced the closure of its airspace to Pakistani carriers from April 30 to May 23. This action escalates the already tense standoff between the two nuclear-armed nations and directly affects Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights, particularly its route to Kuala Lumpur—the only one impacted by India’s restriction.
Read more: Pakistan Armed Forces Fully Prepared to Counter Any Indian Aggression: Sources
Pakistan had earlier warned the international community of potential Indian military strikes in the disputed region, raising alarms over a possible escalation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif firmly rejected Indian allegations linking Pakistan to the Kashmir attack and, during a call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, demanded an impartial investigation. Sharif also urged Washington to push India toward responsible diplomacy and to tone down its aggressive rhetoric.
Islamabad maintains that it has credible intelligence indicating that the Modi government may be planning further military provocations. Although Indian authorities have accused two Pakistani nationals of participating in the Kashmir attack, Pakistan has denied any involvement and reiterated its call for an independent probe into the incident.
The ongoing diplomatic conflict has triggered a series of retaliatory actions from both sides. India has suspended the Indus Water Treaty, while Pakistan has responded by halting certain privileges for Indian citizens, including suspending special visa schemes for South Asians.
With tensions continuing to mount, the situation remains volatile, raising serious concerns about broader regional stability and the potential for further escalation.
