India closes airspace to Pakistani planes
Illustrative photo: India has closed the skies to Pakistani aircraft (Getty Images)
India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), announcing the closure of its airspace to all Pakistani-registered and military aircraft, India TV reports.
According to the outlet, the decision comes amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following a militant attack on a group of tourists in the disputed Kashmir region.
Under the NOTAM, the restriction will be in effect from April 30 to May 23, 2025, during which no Pakistani aircraft will be allowed to enter Indian airspace.
It was also noted that Pakistan earlier declared a temporary no-fly zone (NOTAM) over Islamabad and Lahore until May 2. That move followed concerns over a potential Indian airstrike. The new restrictions prohibit both civilian and military aircraft from flying over these cities - a step often taken in anticipation of risky military operations or retaliatory actions.
India-Pakistan conflict
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated after militants attacked tourists in Kashmir, a disputed region. The nuclear-armed states have exchanged threats of war, and initial clashes have already occurred along the border.
On April 23, militants opened fire on a group of tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir. It has become the deadliest attack in years, killing more than 20 people.
India accused Pakistan of organizing the terror attack and temporarily withdrew from the Indus Waters Treaty with Islamabad.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also granted the military "complete operational freedom to decide on the mode, targets, and timing" of a response to the attack in Kashmir.
More details on the India-Pakistan crisis can be found in the material by RBC-Ukraine.
