India’s bold decision to suspend the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 and downgrade its diplomatic relations with Pakistan has set off intense discussions in Islamabad.
Following the cross-border links to the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 individuals, New Delhi has taken decisive steps to address the situation.
On Wednesday, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced that the country’s National Security Committee (NSC) would convene on Thursday under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
This high-level meeting will bring together top civilian and military officials, including service chiefs and key cabinet ministers, to formulate an appropriate response to India’s moves.
The Indian government has not only put a hold on the landmark water-sharing agreement but has also taken measures like expelling Pakistani military attaches, closing the Integrated Check Post at Attari, and revoking SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme privileges for Pakistani nationals. These actions come in the wake of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where countermeasures to the terror attack were devised.
Pakistan’s leadership faces a significant challenge in navigating the crisis while addressing domestic and international implications. The coming days will determine the path forward amidst escalating tensions in the region.
