India/Pakistan: Deadly clashes in Jammu and Kashmir June 12

Event

On Tuesday, June 12, four Indian soldiers were killed and three injured in cross-border clashes that broke out between Indian and Pakistani troops in Indian-controlled Jammu and Kashmir. The clashes took place in Ramgarh (Samba district) beginning around 21:40 (local time).

Additionally, on the same day, one Pakistani civilian was killed by Indian forces around 15:30 in Poonch district in Pakistani-controlled Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Tensions remain high in the region; further clashes between Pakistani and Indian forces, as well as between Indian forces and separatist militants, are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

A ceasefire has been in place in the region since 2003. However, ceasefire violations are common, sometimes resulting in the deaths of soldiers and civilians on both sides of the border. New Delhi and Islamabad both regularly accuse each other of initiating cross-border clashes.

Tensions were particularly high in the region in February and March 2018, following an attack on an Indian army camp in which six soldiers died. Since the beginning of May, several incidents resulting in numerous casualties have occurred including bombing and exchange of gunfire at the Line of Control (LoC).

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. As a reminder, some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to parts of Kashmir, notably areas along the Line of Control (border), due to the significant risk of violence.