New Delhi [India], May 1 (HBTV): India has closed its airspace to all aircraft registered in Pakistan and those operated by Pakistani airlines, including military flights, in a significant move following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) announced on Wednesday.

A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued, confirming that the airspace closure would apply to all Pakistani-registered, operated, or leased aircraft from April 30 to May 23 (estimated duration).

This move marks a reciprocal escalation, as Pakistan had already blocked Indian aircraft from using its airspace six days earlier.

The decision follows heightened tensions along the Line of Control (LoC), with an increase in ceasefire violations by Pakistan. The Indian Army has responded effectively, and security forces have intensified anti-terror operations across the Kashmir valley.

The government has granted the armed forces full operational freedom to respond to the Pahalgam terror attack. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened a day after the incident. During the briefing, cross-border linkages of the attack were highlighted. It was also noted that the attack occurred amid the successful conduct of elections in Jammu and Kashmir and its ongoing economic progress.

India has taken a series of measures targeting Pakistan for its support to cross-border terrorism. These include placing the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, closing the Integrated Check Post at Attari, and deciding to reduce the strength of both countries’ High Commissions.

(ANI)