Deadly explosions in the capitals of India and Pakistan within 24 hours have reignited fears of heightened tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors. At least 20 people were killed and dozens injured in the incidents, which unfolded in quick succession in New Delhi and Islamabad.
In India, a car exploded near the historic Red Fort on Monday, setting nearby vehicles ablaze and killing eight people. Police said the car had “three or four passengers, all of whom died in the explosion.”
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), India’s top counterterrorism body, has taken over the probe. Delhi Police spokesperson Sanjay Tyagi confirmed, “The inquiry has been transferred to the NIA, which will explore all angles, including terrorism.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, pledging swift action.
“The conspirators behind the Delhi blast will be brought to justice,” Modi said, though he refrained from naming suspects or labeling the explosion an act of terror.
Investigators are reportedly examining whether the explosion involved a suicide bomber, after it was revealed that a Kashmir resident had purchased the vehicle involved.
The Delhi blast came as authorities in nearby Faridabad uncovered 2,900 kilograms of explosives in a separate counterterrorism operation, arresting two suspects — a professor and a doctor — allegedly linked to Pakistan’s “deep state.” Former Jammu and Kashmir police chief S.P. Vaid commented that the arrests “indicate a coordinated plot likely originating across the border.”
Just a day later, Islamabad was rocked by a suicide bombing outside a crowded court complex. According to local authorities, the attacker detonated himself after being denied entry, killing at least 12 and injuring many more.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Office accused India of orchestrating the attack “from Afghan territory,” calling it “one of the worst examples of Indian state-sponsored terrorism in the region.” However, no evidence was provided to support the claim.
Analysts warn that these near-simultaneous attacks could rekindle military hostilities.
“There is appetite despite the qualified success of the previous campaign against Pakistan for another conflict among many in India,” said Subir Sinha, director of the SOAS South Asia Institute in London.
Both nations have vowed investigations, but with memories of their deadly May conflict still fresh, regional stability remains precarious.
