Pakistan on Saturday reported that it had successfully test-fired the Abdali Weapon System, a surface-to-surface ballistic missile of a 450-kilometre range. The launch by Islamabad was described as part of Exercise INDUS and was intended to confirm operational readiness and notable technical developments.
“The launch was designed to confirm the field readiness of troops and to authenticate critical technical parameters, such as the missile’s sophisticated navigation system and advanced manoeuvrability capabilities,” said the Pakistani government.
India Calls Missile Test a Provocative Move
The missile test is taking place at a time when India-Pakistan relations have turned acutely sour after the murderous terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which left 26 civilians dead including a Nepalese tourist and a pony guide, was blamed on a Pakistan-based terror group affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Indian government officials characterized the test of the missile as a gravely provocative step, particularly at a time of heightened tensions between the two countries.
Pakistani Leadership Emboldens Confidence in Military
Following the test of the missile, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military leaders showed absolute confidence in the defense capabilities of the country.
They portrayed “complete confidence” in the operational and technical preparedness of the armed forces to protect the country’s national interests.
Ceasefire Violations and War Drum-Roll Rhetoric
Hostilities have also increased across the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border where, according to charges, ceasefire violations by Pakistan continued. These breaches have met stern responses by India, however, which persisted in its retalistant policy regarding provocation.
On the political front, inflammatory statements by Pakistani leaders have persisted. Pakistan’s Information Minister Ataullah Tara asserted that India was planning an attack in the near future “within 36 hours.” Contrary to his assertion, more than 72 hours have elapsed without any such event. On April 29, Pakistan’s defence minister made a similar threat: “If something has to happen, it will happen in 2-3 days.”
India Terminates Major Bilateral Agreements After Attack
India has made several retaliatory actions following the terror attack. The Indian government officially withdrew from the Indus Waters Treaty and canceled all visas to Pakistani citizens, including medical visas. Those who were already settled in India were asked to return within a particular time frame.
As a retaliation, Pakistan issued a warning of withdrawing from all bilateral agreements, including the historic Simla Agreement.
Diplomatic and Trade Ties Cut
The two nations have significantly reduced diplomatic ties since the Pahalgam incident. India has also imposed a total ban on Pakistan imports and prohibited Pakistani-flagged ships from docking in Indian territorial waters.
With diplomatic, military, and economic relations continuing to decline, the missile test has also heightened tensions in an already unstable regional atmosphere.
