Pakistan hits back: Wahga closed, Indian planes banned, diplomats ordered out

Islamabad: In a swift and firm response to India’s recent actions following the Pahalgam false flag incident, Pakistan’s political and military leadership has taken decisive measures aimed at safeguarding national security and sovereignty.

Chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a high-level meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) brought together top civilian and military officials to review the country’s internal and external security landscape. The meeting was convened after India, without investigation, blamed Pakistan for the deadly Pahalgam attack and unilaterally suspended the Indus Waters Treaty.

In a series of retaliatory steps, Pakistan has announced the immediate closure of the Wahga border, halted all trade activities with India, and imposed a ban on the overflight of Indian aircraft through Pakistani airspace.

The NSC categorically rejected India’s unilateral decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, calling the agreement vital for regional stability. It emphasised that water is a crucial national interest and the lifeline for 240 million Pakistanis, affirming Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to protect its water rights at all costs.

"If the flow of water owned by Pakistan is blocked or diverted, it will be deemed a declaration of war," the NSC stated. Pakistan will defend its lifeline and national interests at any cost.

Pakistan has asked all Indian diplomats to leave the country by April 30. In addition, all Indian citizens residing in Pakistan—excluding Sikh pilgrims—have been ordered to leave within 48 hours.

Pakistan will not compromise on its territorial integrity and national security. The country is fully prepared to respond to any aggression and will not allow any violation of its rights.

The communiqué also noted that India's actions validate the Two-Nation Theory and confirm the apprehensions expressed by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Despite the provocations, the NSC reaffirmed that the people of Pakistan remain committed to peace.

The measures come amid heightened tensions in the region, following the death of 26 people in the Pahalgam shooting incident in Indian-administered Kashmir. Pakistan has strongly denied any involvement, calling the Indian government’s reaction both “irresponsible” and “pre-meditated.”

This is a developing story…