Tue Apr 29 14:27:49 UTC 2025: ## India Gives Military Free Rein After Deadly Terror Attack, Diplomatic Tensions Soar with Pakistan
**New Delhi** – Following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, primarily civilians, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted India’s armed forces complete autonomy in their response. Sources confirm that PM Modi, in a meeting with top officials including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, authorized the military to determine the method, targets, and timing of any retaliatory action. The attack, the worst since the 2019 Pulwama attack, has been linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba group, operating under its proxy, The Resistance Front.
The Prime Minister emphasized India’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and expressed absolute confidence in the military’s capabilities. This authorization follows a series of escalating diplomatic measures against Pakistan, including the revocation of visas for Pakistani nationals (excluding long-term residents and Hindu pilgrims), resulting in the departure of nearly 1,000 Pakistanis from India. Furthermore, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a crucial water-sharing agreement, a move described by Pakistan as an “act of war.” Pakistan has responded in kind, revoking visas for Indian nationals and suspending bilateral agreements.
The heightened tensions have led to strong statements from both sides. A top Pakistani defense official warned of the potential for war, while PM Modi vowed retribution, declaring India’s intent to track down and punish all those responsible for the attack, including those who planned it. He further stated India’s resolve to dismantle terrorist havens. Diplomatic briefings on the evidence implicating Pakistan have been conducted with representatives from the US, Russia, China, Japan, and several European nations. The situation remains highly volatile, with the international community closely monitoring the developing crisis.
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