Pak. shuts airspace, snaps trade relations with India

 (Source – Front Page, The Hindu, 25 April 2025)

Nature of Pakistan’s Measures

1. Airspace Closure

Pakistan closed its entire airspace to Indian civilian and military aircraft (including leased aircraft), affecting India’s flight paths to Gulf, Europe, UK, and North America. The NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) is effective until May 23, 2025.

2. Trade Suspension

All forms of bilateral trade have been suspended. The Wagah border post has been sealed.

3. Diplomatic Downgrading

Pakistan has:

• Declared Indian military attachés persona non grata.
• Ordered a staff cut in Indian diplomatic presence from 55 to 30.
• Cancelled all Indian SAARC visas (except for Sikh pilgrims).

4. Indus Waters Treaty Warning

Most notably, Pakistan warned that any attempt by India to halt or divert the flow of Indus waters (as hinted by Indian strategic circles) would be deemed an “act of war”.

India’s Options and the Way Forward

Short-Term Response

• Maintain high military preparedness to prevent surprise cross-border aggression.
• Mobilize international support, especially from the UN, OIC, and Western powers, to isolate Pakistan diplomatically.
• Enhance tourist and citizen protection mechanisms in conflict zones like Kashmir.

Medium to Long-Term Strategy

• Reassess the Indus Waters Treaty framework for security conditionalities.
• Reinvigorate counter-terror diplomacy with FATF and UNSC focus.
• Strengthen cyber and signal intelligence for pre-emptive detection of terror threats.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s retaliatory move following the Pahalgam terror attack is not just a bilateral crisis but a moment to recalibrate India’s strategic and diplomatic approach to cross-border terrorism. While India must assertively protect its national interest, it must also act responsibly within the framework of international norms. A measured, multi-dimensional response — balancing security, diplomacy, and internal unity — is the need of the hour.