Tensions have escalated once again between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan, as both sides exchanged gunfire for a second consecutive night along the Line of Control (LoC). The skirmish comes in the wake of a deadly militant attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, that left 26 tourists dead.
According to the Indian Army, the firing began around midnight on Friday, when Pakistani forces allegedly opened “provocative” fire with light weapons from several posts along the LoC. In response, Indian troops returned fire. The Indian side also reported similar ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces on Thursday night, though no casualties were reported.
Pakistan’s military has yet to release an official statement regarding the recent exchange of fire.
Kashmir police claimed that the April 22 attack in Pahalgam was carried out by three suspected militants, two of whom were identified as Pakistani nationals. Pakistan has denied any involvement in the incident. The country’s defense minister has called for an international investigation into the attack.
Following the assault, both India and Pakistan have taken retaliatory measures against each other. Pakistan announced the closure of its airspace to Indian aircraft, while India declared the suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty.
Despite a long-standing ceasefire agreement over the Kashmir region, sporadic exchanges of fire along the LoC are not uncommon. Both countries claim Kashmir in full and have fought three wars over the disputed territory.
