India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire for Fourth Night Amid Kashmir Tensions

Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated after a deadly attack in Kashmir that killed 26 people, with India blaming Pakistan-based militants and Pakistan denying involvement. In the days following the attack, Indian and Pakistani troops have exchanged gunfire across the Line of Control in Kashmir for consecutive nights, though no casualties have been reported. India has identified some of the attackers as Pakistani nationals and suspended key diplomatic ties, including the Indus Waters Treaty and visa issuances, while Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian flights and expelled diplomats in response. Both countries have accused each other of unprovoked firing, and the United Nations has urged restraint and peaceful resolution of the dispute. The attack, which targeted Hindus, has reignited fears of violence in the disputed region, threatening recent gains in tourism and stability. Calls for a neutral international investigation have been made by Pakistan, while India’s leadership has vowed strong countermeasures and intensified counter-terrorism operations in Kashmir.