Tensions between India and Pakistan have surged following a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Jammu-Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, killing 26 tourists.

Pakistani media, citing leaked Telegram documents, claim India’s intelligence agency orchestrated the assault to target non-Muslim communities and frame Pakistan’s ISI through propaganda via fake accounts. India denies these allegations, accusing Pakistan of supporting the attackers.

Pakistan conducted large-scale military drills near the Line of Control (LoC), deploying armored vehicles and advanced weaponry. Pakistan’s army chief, General Asim Munir, warned India of a strong response to any military aggression. Pakistan’s air force also claimed to have chased away four Indian fighter jets patrolling the LoC.

India’s Home Minister Amit Shah vowed to hunt down all involved in the attack, promising no mercy. In retaliation, India closed its airspace to Pakistani flights from April 30 to May 23, 2025.

Pakistan reciprocated, banning Indian flights, disrupting hundreds of routes. Aviation experts estimate Indian airlines face weekly losses of ₹77 crore due to increased fuel and transit costs, while Pakistan’s aviation sector, reliant on fewer routes, will see less impact.

Authorities in Pakistan-controlled Azad Kashmir shut down religious educational institutions for 10 days, citing fears of Indian airstrikes. Schools in the region have begun emergency safety training for children.

Meanwhile, India has heightened security in Pahalgam, with increased military presence restoring some calm. Local restaurants have reopened, and tourists are slowly returning, drawn by the region’s scenic beauty despite recent violence.

The mutual airspace closures strain both nations’ economies. India’s aviation sector faces higher operational costs, while Pakistan loses overflight fees. Tourism, contributing 7-8% to Kashmir’s GDP, took a hit post-attack but is showing signs of recovery with bolstered security.

Diplomatic efforts to ease tensions continue. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged restraint in calls with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. Pakistan’s U.S. ambassador sought intervention from President Donald Trump to de-escalate the crisis.

Path Forward

Pahalgam is gradually regaining its vibrancy, with heightened security fostering cautious optimism. However, ongoing military posturing and airspace restrictions signal a volatile standoff.

Read more: India-Pakistan Tensions Surge Post-Pahalgam Terror Attack

Both nations face economic pressures, but the human cost of further escalation remains the greatest concern. International mediation may be critical to preventing a broader conflict in this historically contested region.