India and Pakistan: A Timeline of Tensions Eased—How Nuclear Rivals Stepped Back from War

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (AP) — A deadly attack on tourists in India on April 22 has pushed India and Pakistan closer to conflict, marking a serious escalation in their long-standing rivalry.

Since both nations gained independence from British rule in 1947, they have often been at odds. However, this recent incident is alarming due to the scale and speed of the violence.

Initially, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with Vice President JD Vance, reached out to both governments. They urged them to agree to an immediate ceasefire.

Timeline of the Crisis

April 22

Gunmen opened fire at the Pahalgam resort in Indian-administered Kashmir, killing at least 26 tourists and wounding 17 others. Witnesses reported that the assailants asked victims if they were Hindu before attacking. A group named Kashmir Resistance, allegedly backed by Pakistan, claimed responsibility.

April 23

In response, India downgraded diplomatic relations, closed its only functioning land border crossing, and halted a long-standing water-sharing agreement. India also launched a manhunt for the attackers, while Pakistan denied any involvement.

April 24

Both nations canceled visas for each other’s citizens and imposed travel restrictions. Pakistan further retaliated by shutting its airspace to Indian airlines and halting trade routes.

April 25

Clashes occurred at the Line of Control, the de facto border in Kashmir. Pakistan warned of the potential suspension of an agreement regarding this boundary.

April 26

Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif promised a robust response to any Indian attempts to disrupt water supplies. Meanwhile, Iran offered to mediate, suggesting that international involvement may be necessary.

April 30

In the wake of the attacks, Indian authorities closed several resorts in Kashmir, and tensions escalated with continuous crossfire reported for the fifth night in a row. Pakistan claimed to have intelligence that India was planning military strikes.

May 1

U.S. Secretary Rubio made calls to both sides to foster dialogue. He expressed concern over the tourist attacks in Pahalgam and emphasized the need for peace and collaboration.

May 3

Pakistan tested a ballistic missile with a range of 450 kilometers. In retaliation, India suspended all mail exchanges and prohibited imports from Pakistan.

May 7

India struck targets in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, resulting in 31 fatalities including women and children. The Indian Defense Ministry justified these actions as necessary against alleged terrorist threats.

May 8

Further strikes involved attack drones, causing civilian casualties and prompting evacuations across both sides of the border. Educational institutions in Pakistan also closed due to safety concerns.

May 9

With military tensions high, India suspended its biggest domestic cricket tournament. Vice President Vance stated that a potential conflict between the two countries should not involve the U.S., as both nations faced escalating tensions from harassment by drones along their borders.

May 10

Missile exchanges continued, with both nations indicating a willingness to de-escalate if the other reciprocated. News of a potential ceasefire surfaced when President Trump announced on social media that India and Pakistan had agreed to halt military action, a development both governments later confirmed.

The situation remains fragile. As noted by experts, ongoing tensions have historically led to regrettable consequences. Drawing from past conflicts, many in the region are anxious about a repeat of history. With international observers urging caution, the hope is that dialogue can pave the way toward lasting peace.

For perspective, a recent report from the Institute for Peace Studies suggests that addressing underlying issues, like disputes over water resources and territorial claims, is essential for sustained stability in South Asia. These fundamental concerns remain as critical as ever in discussions of peace.

Source link

India, Pakistan, Marco Rubio, JD Vance, Donald Trump, General news, India government, Pakistan government, War and unrest, South Asia, Nur Khan, International agreements, Tammy Bruce, World news