India is conducting nationwide civil defense drills and military exercises near the border as tensions escalate with Pakistan following a recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan's defense chief stated a clash between the nuclear-armed neighbors appears "imminent."
The warning from Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif came Tuesday after he met with country's spy agency, Inter-Services Intelligence, officials. He linked the increased tension to a dispute over river water flow and accusations following the attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people last month.
Meanwhile, India's Ministry of Home Affairs directed states to conduct extensive civil defense exercises Wednesday to prepare for "new and complex threats." These drills involve simulating air raid warnings, blackouts, rescue operations, and testing communication systems. Locations range from schools in Delhi to vital infrastructure sites in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Separately, the Indian Air Force is scheduled to conduct a military exercise along the International Border in Rajasthan starting Wednesday night. India issued a NOTAM or Notice to Airmen regarding the drill.
Cross-border firing has continued for 12 consecutive nights along the Line of Control, with the Pakistan Army resorting to unprovoked small-arms fire in multiple sectors. The Indian Army has stated it responded proportionately. Military officials from both nations hold weekly hotline conversations.
The United Nations Security Council held closed-door consultations on the situation, expressing concern over tensions between the countries. Members reportedly questioned Pakistan regarding involvement of a Pakistan-based group in the Pahalgam attack and flagged concerns about Pakistan's missile tests and nuclear rhetoric.
India has taken several steps following the attack and rising India and Pakistan tensions, including suspending the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, which regulates river water sharing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi commented that "India's water is for India only."
Recent events also include the detention of a Pakistani national near the Line of Control in Poonch, following the arrest of a Pakistan ranger near the border in Rajasthan. Authorities in Punjab recovered weapons, including Rocket-Propelled Grenades and Improvised Explosive Devices, stating initial findings indicate involvement by Pakistan's ISI and allied groups.
Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif stated, "The moment India makes a move, we will give them a befitting reply."
