India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate After Kashmir Attack

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people and led India to accuse Pakistan of involvement and vow severe punishment. In response, Pakistan conducted a test launch of its Abdali surface-to-surface ballistic missile as part of Exercise Indus, an action Indian officials condemned as a 'reckless provocation.' Pakistan insists the missile test was routine and unrelated to the attack, while reaffirming confidence in its nuclear deterrence. Both countries have suspended visas, expelled each other's nationals, and intensified military postures along the Line of Control, with ongoing reports of ceasefire violations. The US and EU have urged both sides to exercise restraint to avoid a broader regional crisis. Pakistan continues to deny involvement in the attack and has called for an independent investigation, while India has granted its military full operational freedom to respond.