In a sweeping response to recent tensions, Pakistan has imposed a ban on Indian aircraft entering its airspace, suspended all trade activities with India, and revoked several bilateral privileges, including special visa access.
Pakistan on Thursday officially barred all Indian-operated flights from using its airspace, citing security concerns following a deadly attack in India’s Jammu and Kashmir region. According to a report by Al Jazeera, Islamabad has also suspended all forms of trade with India, further tightening restrictions amid escalating diplomatic strains.
The Pakistani government stated that no goods from any third country will be allowed to enter or exit India through Pakistani territory. Additionally, Islamabad has cancelled the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) special visa facility for Indian nationals. Those currently holding such visas have been ordered to leave Pakistan within 48 hours.
In a significant diplomatic move, Pakistan declared Indian military advisors stationed at its New Delhi embassy as persona non grata and ordered a reduction in the number of Indian embassy officials in Islamabad to 30, effective April 30.
The fallout follows a militant attack in Pehelgam, Jammu and Kashmir, earlier this week that left 26 dead. India has accused Pakistani nationals of involvement, an allegation Pakistan has firmly denied, calling it “baseless and politically motivated.”
This latest standoff underscores the deteriorating ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, with analysts warning of further diplomatic and economic repercussions unless dialogue resumes.
LND/BG
