• Pakistan warns of a possible Indian military strike within 24-36 hours, citing credible intelligence.
• The warning comes in response to a recent attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, that killed 26 people.
• India claims Pakistani elements were involved in the attack, which Pakistan denies.
• International calls for restraint are increasing amid fears of an escalation between the nuclear-armed rivals.
• Pakistan's Prime Minister calls for a neutral investigation into the attack, while preparations are underway for potential conflict.

Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar announced on Wednesday that the country possesses "credible intelligence" indicating that India plans to launch a military strike within the next 24 to 36 hours. This declaration follows a deadly attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which saw 26 individuals killed, and has led to escalating tensions between the nuclear-armed nations. Tarar accused India of using the Pahalgam incident as a "false pretext" for military action, and stated that any aggression would be met with a decisive response, according to The Guardian.

The backdrop of these claims includes Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi granting the military "complete operational freedom" to respond to what India describes as cross-border terrorism linked to the recent attack. The rise in tensions has also seen both countries exchanging gunfire across the Line of Control (LoC), leading to continued military preparedness on both sides. In a televised address, Tarar stressed Pakistan's readiness to defend its sovereignty and noted the evasion of credible investigations as indicative of India's motives, as reported by ABC News, Channel News Asia, and Dawn.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has reinforced the need for military readiness, indicating that decisions have been made in anticipation of an imminent strike by India. Various measures have been taken, such as monitoring the situation along the LoC and increasing military presence, with the Pakistani military also conducting exercises to ensure preparedness for any incursions. He warned that any acts of aggression from India would trigger a strong response, reiterating Pakistan's commitment to defending its territorial integrity, as highlighted by Reuters, Los Angeles Times, and Middle East Eye.

International diplomatic efforts are ongoing to de-escalate the situation. The United States and the United Nations have been involved in discussions urging both countries to avoid confrontation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to communicate with both Indian and Pakistani foreign ministers to promote peace. Meanwhile, schools in regions close to the LoC have been temporarily closed and communities have started preparing for potential conflict, as reported by Al Jazeera and BBC.