Pakistani Army Initiates Unprovoked Firing For Eighth Straight Night, Indian Army Responds

 New Delhi, May 2, 2025 – In the aftermath of the devastating April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 civilians dead, India has intensified both its military readiness and diplomatic engagement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level security meeting on Tuesday, during which the armed forces were granted full operational autonomy to determine the timing, targets, and nature of India's response to the escalating tensions with Pakistan.

As security forces continue large-scale counter-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir, incidents of unprovoked cross-border firing by Pakistani forces have been reported, further aggravating the already volatile situation.

Strategic Diplomacy in Motion

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a crucial phone conversation with his U.S. counterpart, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, to discuss regional security developments in light of the Pahalgam attack. The dialogue comes shortly after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. During that exchange, Secretary Rubio reportedly encouraged India to work constructively with Pakistan to avoid further escalation.

Tit-for-Tat Measures Escalate

In a firm response to Pakistan’s earlier airspace restrictions, India has closed its airspace to all commercial flights operated by Pakistan-based carriers. This move follows Pakistan’s decision last week to bar Indian aircraft from its airspace, a retaliatory measure against India’s diplomatic actions taken in response to the Pahalgam attack.

Major Diplomatic Decisions Unfold

In a significant development, India has announced the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a long-standing water-sharing agreement with Pakistan brokered in 1960. Additionally, the Attari border crossing has been formally closed, marking a further deterioration in bilateral ties. These actions signal a recalibration of India’s diplomatic and strategic posture amid growing public and political pressure for a strong response.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing military activity on the ground and continued international engagement aimed at preventing a broader conflict in the region.