Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar announced Wednesday that his country has "credible intelligence" suggesting India plans to launch military strikes within the next 24-36 hours, escalating tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
The minister's statement comes in the wake of a deadly terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, including 25 Indian tourists and one Nepali national. While a previously unknown group called Kashmir Resistance claimed responsibility, India has accused Pakistan of involvement, stating that two of the three identified attackers were Pakistani nationals.
Pakistan has firmly denied any connection to the attack and called for a neutral investigation. The incident has already triggered diplomatic measures, with both nations canceling visas and recalling diplomats. India has also suspended a water-sharing treaty with Pakistan and ordered its border closure.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who met with top military and security officials, has promised retribution for the attack. Indian media reports suggest Modi has given the armed forces "complete operational freedom" to decide on the response's mode, targets, and timing.
The United Nations has expressed concern about the escalating situation, warning of "catastrophic" consequences if the two nuclear-armed nations engage in military conflict. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has held separate discussions with leaders from both countries to ease tensions.
Military forces from both sides have already exchanged gunfire along the Line of Control dividing Kashmir, the disputed territory that has been a source of conflict between India and Pakistan since their partition in 1947.
The U.S. State Department has urged both nations to avoid escalation, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio planning discussions with foreign ministers from both countries.
As of Wednesday, India's government has not officially responded to Pakistan's claims about the imminent military action.