Pakistan expels Indian high commission staffer following India’s expulsion of Pakistani official from India

In a tit-for-tat diplomatic move, Pakistan has expelled an Indian high commission staffer following India's recent expulsion of a Pakistani official. The Indian official was asked to leave in response to India’s decision on May 21 to expel a Pakistani official from the Pakistan High Commission on charges of espionage. This development marks a new low in the already strained relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The Pakistani official expelled by India was accused of engaging in activities incompatible with diplomatic norms, a euphemism often used for espionage allegations. Pakistan, denying the charges, condemned the move as unjustified and retaliated by ordering an Indian diplomat to leave Islamabad. This exchange of expulsions underscores the deep-seated mistrust and ongoing tensions that shadow bilateral ties. Both nations have a long history of diplomatic stand-offs, often marked by reciprocal expulsions, yet the recent incidents highlight the fragile state of current relations. As both sides stand firm, international observers express concern over the potential escalation of tensions. The global community watches closely, hoping for a diplomatic resolution to avoid further deterioration between the two countries.

— Authored by Next24 Live