Naval Drills Intensify as India and Pakistan Edge Closer to Confrontation

The Indian Navy has issued four firing notifications for naval exercises off the Gujarat coast, coinciding with Pakistan's own drills in the Arabian Sea, as tensions escalate following the Pahalgam terror attack. India's exercises, scheduled from April 30 to May 3, are taking place within its Exclusive Economic Zone, approximately 85 nautical miles from Pakistan's concurrent wargames.

This military posturing follows the April 22 massacre in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 28 civilians, predominantly Hindu tourists, were killed by militants. India has attributed the attack to Pakistan-based groups, specifically Lashkar-e-Taiba, citing the involvement of Pakistani nationals among the assailants. Pakistan has denied any involvement and called for a neutral investigation.

In response to the attack, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and closed the Wagah-Attari border crossing. Pakistan has reciprocated by suspending visas for Indian nationals and closing its airspace to Indian aircraft. Both nations have reported minor cross-border firing incidents along the Line of Control, though no casualties have been confirmed.

Pakistan has warned of credible intelligence indicating a potential Indian military strike within 24 to 36 hours, prompting heightened alertness in the region. The United States has engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging restraint and cooperation in investigating the Pahalgam attack.