The article details the long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, triggered by India's recent airstrikes in response to a terrorist attack. The conflict's origins trace back to 1947, when British India was partitioned, leaving Kashmir's status unresolved. Both India and Pakistan claimed the territory, leading to military confrontation. The Hindu ruler of Kashmir eventually acceded to India in exchange for security assurances.
The current crisis stems from a deadly attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir, which India attributes to Pakistan, a claim Pakistan denies. India launched airstrikes, resulting in reported casualties on the Pakistani side. Pakistan vowed retaliation.
Kashmir's strategic location and its predominantly Muslim population have been at the heart of the conflict between India and Pakistan. The Kashmiri people themselves have historically had little say in their fate. The continuing tension between the two nuclear-armed nations poses a significant global security risk.