Context:

The recent escalation between India and Pakistan follows a deadly terrorist attack on April 22 in Kashmir, where militants killed 26 people, primarily Hindu tourists, and injured 17. In response, India launched strikes on multiple sites in Pakistan, which it claims are linked to militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, though Pakistan denies involvement. The historical conflict over Kashmir dates back to the 1947 partition of British India, with both nations having fought several wars over the region. Tensions are fueled by accusations of Pakistan supporting militancy within Kashmir, despite Pakistan's recent efforts to curb such activities under international pressure. The risk of further military confrontation remains high, as both countries are nuclear powers, and international calls for restraint and dialogue continue amid concerns over possible escalation.

Dive Deeper:

• India conducted airstrikes on nine targets in Pakistan, claiming these sites were affiliated with militant groups responsible for a terrorist attack in Kashmir, where 26 people were killed on April 22. The Pakistani government denies any involvement in the attack and has vowed to respond to India's actions.

• The attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, attributed to a group suspected of being a proxy for the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, targeted mostly Hindu tourists, leading to a significant clampdown by Indian security forces in the region.

• Kashmir has been a long-standing point of contention between India and Pakistan since the partition of British India in 1947. Both countries have fought multiple wars over the region, with ongoing disputes and violence often centered around questions of sovereignty and autonomy.

• Pakistan's historical support for militancy in Kashmir has been acknowledged by some of its past leaders, although recent international scrutiny has pressured Pakistan to restrict militant activities and assets, complicating cross-border militant operations.

• The possibility of a full-scale war between India and Pakistan remains a significant concern due to both nations' nuclear capabilities. Diplomatic efforts from countries like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and international bodies such as the UN and EU stress the importance of restraint and dialogue to prevent escalation.

• The Indian government's 2019 decision to revoke the special autonomous status of Jammu and Kashmir has intensified tensions, leading to increased militarization and political unrest in the region.

• Both India and Pakistan have faced internal unrest in their controlled areas of Kashmir, with India's direct administration leading to reduced violence but increased dissatisfaction among the local population, while protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir reflect discontent with Pakistani governance.