Pakistan Ups Ante

In a move representing a sharp escalation in the stand off between Pakistan and India, Pakistani troops began moving away from the country’s border with Afghanistan and toward India. Many Pakistani soldiers have also been barred from going on leave. According to an Associated Press report, the troops are moving to Kasur and Sialkot, near India. One senior military official said the leave restrictions were brought on “in view of the prevailing environment” between the country and India. He also said the air force was “vigilant” and “alert” for the same reason. Across the border in India, authorities have warned travelers not to cross into Pakistan. Tensions between the longtime rivals have risen since last month’s terrorist attacks in Mumbai that left 171 people dead.