Pakistan, in response to India’s actions after a terror strike in Pahalgam, has decided to close its airspace to all Indian-owned airlines. They also shut down the Wagah border and suspended trade routes with India. These decisions were made after a meeting of Pakistan’s National Security Committee.
Not really sure why this matters, but Pakistan also suspended all visas issued to Indian nationals under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. They instructed Indian nationals to leave Pakistan within 48 hours, except for Sikh pilgrims. Additionally, Indian Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors in Islamabad were declared persona non grata.
Maybe it’s just me, but reducing the strength of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to 30 diplomats and staff members seems like a big deal. The statement confirmed that Pakistan’s airspace will be closed immediately to all Indian-owned or operated airlines, and all trade with India has been suspended.
These decisions were made after India’s Cabinet Committee on Security announced punitive actions against Pakistan. The attack in Pahalgam claimed 26 lives, including two foreigners. India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty is seen as a significant move that could affect Pakistan’s agriculture and power supply.