• A deadly militant attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, has ignited a new crisis between India and Pakistan, leading to heightened tensions and fears of military escalation.
• Pakistan claims to have credible intelligence of an imminent Indian military strike and has warned of a decisive response, while India accuses Pakistan of involvement in the attack.
• Both countries have taken retaliatory measures, including diplomatic downgrades, airspace bans, and suspension of a key water-sharing treaty, prompting international calls for de-escalation.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following a militant attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people. India has accused Pakistan of being involved in the attack, a charge Pakistan vehemently denies, offering a neutral investigation. The situation has led to a series of retaliatory measures from both sides, including the downgrading of diplomatic ties, airspace bans, and the suspension of a key water-sharing treaty. International actors, including the United States and China, have urged restraint and de-escalation amid fears of potential military action.

• What: Escalating tensions between India and Pakistan after a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, leading to diplomatic downgrades, airspace bans, and warnings of military action.
• Who: Key actors include the governments of India and Pakistan, Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and militant groups operating in Kashmir.
• When: The crisis began on April 22, 2025, with the militant attack in Pahalgam. Retaliatory measures and warnings of military action followed in the subsequent days.
• Where: The primary geographical focus is the Kashmir region, particularly the Line of Control (LoC), with diplomatic and political activity extending to Islamabad, New Delhi, Washington D.C., and Beijing.

The current crisis between India and Pakistan is rooted in the long-standing dispute over Kashmir and accusations of cross-border terrorism. The recent attack in Pahalgam has heightened tensions, with both countries engaging in retaliatory measures. Pakistan's warning of an imminent Indian military strike suggests a high level of distrust and fear of escalation. The involvement of international actors, such as the US and China, underscores the regional and global implications of the crisis. The potential suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty raises concerns about the long-term impact on water resources and regional stability. The situation is further complicated by internal political dynamics in both countries, with pressure on leaders to respond decisively while also avoiding a full-scale conflict.

"Pakistan has credible intelligence that India intends carrying out military action against Pakistan in the next 24-36 hours,"

"The only thing we need right now is a peaceful neighborhood."

"Any military adventurism by India would be responded to assuredly and decisively."

The situation between India and Pakistan remains highly volatile following the Pahalgam attack. While international actors are urging de-escalation, the risk of military action remains significant. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether diplomatic efforts can prevent a further escalation of the conflict. The long-term implications of the crisis, including the potential suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the impact on regional stability, require careful monitoring and proactive engagement from the international community.