(Image source from: Financialexpress.com)
On Saturday, Pakistan announced the successful testing of a surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of 450 kilometers. Identified as the Abdali Weapon System, the missile was reportedly launched during Exercise INDUS, according to claims from Islamabad. This missile test occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions with India following the terror attack in Pahalgam. Indian sources interpret any missile launch from Pakistan as a serious threat. The Pakistani government stated, "The launch was conducted to confirm the operational readiness of the military and to assess key technical specifications, including the missile's sophisticated navigation system and improved maneuverability characteristics." Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with military leaders, has conveyed "complete confidence" in their forces' capabilities to protect the nation’s security.
Pakistan has consistently attempted to provoke India through frequent violations of the ceasefire along the Line of Control, which distinguishes Pakistan-occupied Kashmir from the International Border. India has effectively countered such provocations each time. Additionally, inflammatory remarks and aggressive rhetoric from Pakistani officials have been ongoing since the Pahalgam incident. Information Minister Ataullah Tara had asserted that India was preparing for an assault that would occur within 36 hours, yet more than 72 hours have elapsed without such an event. Similarly, on April 29, the defense minister expressed, "If anything is to occur, it will happen in 2 to 3 days."
On April 22, a horrifying attack in the picturesque Baisaran meadow of Jammu and Kashmir resulted in the deaths of at least 26 individuals, including a Nepalese tourist and a local pony guide. A terror group associated with the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba claimed responsibility for this act. Following revelations of the attack's links to Pakistan, India decided to terminate the Indus Waters Treaty and revoked all visas for Pakistani citizens, including those for medical purposes. Those residing in India were given an ultimatum to exit. In retaliation, Pakistan threatened to annul all bilateral agreements with India, including the Simla Agreement. The diplomatic relations between the two nations have been downgraded in the aftermath of the tragic incident. Furthermore, India has imposed a ban on all imports from Pakistan and prohibited vessels flying the Pakistani flag from entering its waters.
