Global Travel Advisories Issued Amid Operation Sindoor Tensions
In the aftermath of India’s Operation Sindoor, a military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, several nations have updated their travel advisories for India and Pakistan. The operation targeted nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, leading to heightened regional tensions.
India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate
The military strikes have significantly heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Pakistan condemned the operation as an act of aggression and has reportedly downed several Indian jets in retaliation. The situation remains volatile, with both nations exchanging artillery fire along the Line of Control, leading to civilian casualties on both sides.
Travel Advisories Issued
In response to the escalating conflict, multiple countries have updated their travel advisories:
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United States: The U.S. Department of State has issued a “Do Not Travel” advisory for areas near the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control, citing risks of terrorism and armed conflict.
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United Kingdom: The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border in Gujarat, Punjab, and Rajasthan due to the unpredictable security situation.
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Australia: The Australian government, through Smartraveller, urges travelers to reconsider travel to Pakistan and exercise a high degree of caution in India, particularly avoiding Jammu and Kashmir and border areas.
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Singapore: Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises citizens to defer all non-essential travel to Jammu and Kashmir in India, and to Pakistan, due to the volatile security situation.
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Canada and Sweden: Both countries have issued travel warnings for India and Pakistan, citing heightened security risks and potential retaliatory attacks.
Impact on Air Travel
The conflict has disrupted air travel across South and Central Asia. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have been barred from Pakistani airspace, while international carriers including Korean Air, EVA Air, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, and Batik Air have rerouted or suspended flights for security reasons. Flight tracking data reveals a near-complete shutdown of flights over Pakistan, with only a few aircraft visible.
International Calls for Restraint
Global leaders, including the United Nations, China, Russia, and Western countries, have expressed concern over the escalating tensions and urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and engage in diplomatic dialogue. The situation remains fluid, and travelers are advised to stay informed through official channels and exercise caution when planning travel to the affected regions.
