Clashes in Balochistan Leave 41 Dead as Army Chief Visits Region

The United States government has issued an urgent advisory for its citizens and consulate personnel in Lahore, Pakistan, urging them to either evacuate immediately or shelter in secure locations. This advisory comes after India launched an offensive against terror camps in Pakistan, reportedly destroying air defense radar sites in Lahore. According to the US advisory, the situation escalated following “reports of drone explosions, downed drones, and possible airspace incursions” in the area. Citizens were reminded to have evacuation plans that do not rely on US government assistance and to stay informed through local media sources. Sources have indicated that Pakistan's HQ-9 missile defense system was struck during the Indian military action involving Israeli-made HAROP drones, leaving the area vulnerable. This development follows Pakistan's attempted retaliatory drone strikes against Indian military installations, which were intercepted by India's Integrated Counter-UAS Grid. The Indian strikes were part of "Operation Sindoor," launched in response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, further escalating tensions between the two nations.

India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, anticipating a 21% water shortage in Pakistan during the early Kharif season, according to the Indus River System Authority (IRSA). The decision to put the treaty in abeyance follows a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including tourists. Officials stated that the closure of the Salal and Baglihar dams on the Chenab River has led to a significant decrease in water levels, adversely impacting the flow to Pakistan. This sudden drop in inflows has raised concerns within the IRSA advisory committee, which noted the potential for severe shortages unless water supply conditions improve. In response to the Pahalgam attacks, India has enacted multiple punitive measures against Pakistan, including trade bans, restrictions on Pakistani vessels, and sealing the Attari-Wagah border. The Indian government has emphasized the need for stringent actions to isolate Pakistan, intensifying geopolitical tensions in the region.

A recent analysis has highlighted the significant control exerted by Pakistan's military intelligence, particularly the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI), over the country's political and security landscape. According to reports, this military body, which originated as a military intelligence agency, has evolved into Pakistan's most powerful institution, overshadowing civilian governance. The findings come in the wake of a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by India from militant groups believed to be trained by Pakistan's deep state. Observers suggest that the ISI's methods and objectives remain focused on undermining Indian security, positioning military leaders in Rawalpindi as pivotal figures in shaping the country’s foreign and domestic policy. Experts argue that the predominance of the military in Pakistan’s governance not only complicates internal politics but also exacerbates regional tensions, particularly with India. The involvement of the military in local and international security issues raises questions about the viability of civil governance in Pakistan.