Tensions Rise as Pakistan Moves Tanks Near Narowal, Activates Swat Air Base

Tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate sharply, with significant military movements on both sides following the deadly April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

Footage has emerged showing Pakistan Army tanks mobilizing near Narowal in Punjab province, just 18 to 20 kilometers from the international border with India. Simultaneously, credible sources have confirmed that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has activated its Swat air base in the northern region, suggesting heightened military readiness.

The situation follows the tragic Pahalgam attack that left 26 people dead — mostly tourists — marking one of the deadliest incidents in the region since 2000. Responsibility was allegedly claimed by a previously unknown group, The Resistance Front (TRF).

In a significant development in the ongoing military dynamics, India has reportedly withdrawn its INS Vikrant aircraft carrier from the Arabian Sea. The carrier, which had been operationally deployed in the region in a show of force, has now been pulled back and is no longer actively stationed against Pakistan.

Footage has emerged showing the movement of Pakistan Army tanks near the Narowal area of Punjab province, approximately 18 to 20 kilometers from the international border with India. The development comes amid rapidly escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.

On April 22, a brutal assault in Pahalgam claimed the lives of 26 individuals, most of them tourists. It stands as one of the deadliest attacks in the disputed Himalayan region since 2000. A previously unknown group, The Resistance Front (TRF), allegedly claimed responsibility for the carnage.

In the aftermath, relations between India and Pakistan have deteriorated sharply. India has unilaterally suspended the critical Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation over river management. In retaliation, Pakistan has threatened to suspend the Simla Agreement, a key framework for peace, and is reportedly considering closing its airspace to Indian flights.

India has suggested potential cross-border involvement of militant elements, a claim Pakistan has categorically denied, labeling the accusations as “baseless and irresponsible.”

The tank movements near Narowal are being closely monitored by analysts and international observers, fueling concerns of a possible military escalation. Both nations have urged for restraint publicly, but on-ground activities hint at a growing military posture.

In a related development, sources have reported that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has activated its Swat air base in the northern part of the country. This move is seen as a significant military posture adjustment as fears of further escalation grow.

The situation remains fluid, and diplomatic efforts to ease tensions are ongoing through backchannel talks and pressure from international stakeholders urging both sides to exercise maximum restraint.

Tensions escalate as #Pakistan Army tanks seen near Narowal amid India-Pakistan diplomatic standoff after #Pahalgam attackhttps://t.co/dgDzFvvr1F pic.twitter.com/1asyhIAe8z

— The Shia Post (@shiapost) April 28, 2025