Why it matters:
The closure of major airports and the mutual exchange of missile strikes signal a dangerous uptick in military confrontation between India and Pakistan, two nations with a history of conflict and possession of nuclear arsenals. Regional stability and civilian safety are at growing risk.
What it's saying:
India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation issued multiple NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) announcing the temporary closure of airports from May 9 to 14. The shutdown affects airports in Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, and the Indian-administered Kashmir region.
Key points:
- Missile strikes and cyber operations have intensified between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, pushing their conflict to one of the most dangerous levels in recent years.
- While India accuses Pakistan of missile and drone attacks, Islamabad denies the claims and asserts it is responding to Indian aggression, prompting international calls for restraint to avoid further conflict.
Go deeper:
Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated this week following tit-for-tat missile exchanges and mutual accusations. The situation has drawn international concern, with several countries urging both sides to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further deterioration into open conflict. With both nations armed with nuclear weapons and a history of war, the current crisis presents serious risks to peace in South Asia.
ahmad shirzadian
