Chandigarh, April 24: Pakistan issued a series of strong measures including the cancelling of Shimla agreement on Wednesday, accused New Delhi of plotting attacks and warned of severe consequences in return.
“India is planning terrorist attacks in Pakistani cities. There will be a tit for tat. If our citizens are not safe in our cities, Indian citizens will not be safe in Indian cities. We’ll make them pay through their noses,” Pakistan’s Defence Minister said during a press briefing.
In another sharp escalation, Pakistan declared that any disruption or diversion of water flows it is entitled to under international agreements would be considered an act of war.
“If the flow of water owned by Pakistan is blocked or diverted, it will be deemed a declaration of war,” Islamabad stated.
Following these warnings, Pakistan announced multiple diplomatic and economic actions:
– The Indian High Commission in Islamabad has been ordered to limit its staff to 30 members by April 30.
– Pakistani airspace has been closed to all Indian airlines with immediate effect.
– All trade with India, including indirect trade via third countries, has been suspended.
– The Wagah border crossing has been shut down indefinitely.
Officials said the steps are part of a coordinated response to what they described as India’s “hostile intent.” Further actions could follow if tensions continue to rise.
The Shimla Agreement is a peace treaty signed between India and Pakistan on July 2, 1972, in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, following the 1971 India-Pakistan war, which led to the creation of Bangladesh during the agreement both countries agreed to resolve their differences, including the Kashmir issue, only through bilateral negotiations, without involving third parties (like the UN or other countries).
Both sides agreed to respect each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and refrain from the threat or use of force.
Ceasefire Line to Line of Control (LoC): The ceasefire line in Jammu and Kashmir, as of December 17, 1971, was to be respected by both sides and renamed the Line of Control (LoC).
Neither side would try to alter it unilaterally.
Return of POWs and Territory: India agreed to return over 90,000 Pakistani prisoners of war and captured territory after Pakistan committed to peaceful bilateral engagement.
