In a dramatic escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian military launched "Operation Sindoor" on May 7, 2025, targeting terrorist camps across the border. This operation comes in the wake of a tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including 25 tourists and one local resident, on April 22, 2025.
Residents in the Kashmir region reported feeling the impact of air activity related to the military strikes, with one individual from Peerbagh, near Srinagar's airport, stating, "Our houses were shaken with this activity in the air." The strikes were carried out in the early hours of Wednesday, causing panic among the local population, who had already begun hoarding essential goods in anticipation of potential conflict.
IndiGo Airlines announced significant disruptions to its flight services due to the military action, affecting routes to and from several northern cities including Srinagar, Jammu, and Amritsar. The airline took to social media platform X to inform passengers, stating, "Due to changing airspace conditions in the region, our flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala are impacted." They urged travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
The Indian government characterized Operation Sindoor as "focused, measured, and non-escalatory," emphasizing that the strikes were specifically aimed at nine locations linked to planned attacks on India, without targeting any Pakistani military facilities. This approach appears to be a strategic effort to respond to the growing threats posed by terrorist groups operating from across the border while trying to maintain a level of restraint to avoid a full-scale conflict.
The aftermath of the Pahalgam attack had already heightened tensions in the region, prompting residents to stockpile essential supplies. Reports indicated that many were caught off guard by the military operation, which coincided with a planned national mock drill. The surprise strikes led to an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear among the local population, who have been enduring years of conflict and unrest.
As the situation continues to develop, the Indian government is under pressure to ensure the safety and security of its citizens while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of South Asia. The recent military action underscores the fragile nature of peace in the region and the ongoing threat posed by terrorism.
In summary, the Indian military's targeted strikes against terror camps in Pakistan mark a significant escalation in hostilities, following the deadly Pahalgam attack. With air travel disruptions affecting key routes and local populations on high alert, the situation remains tense as both nations grapple with the implications of this military operation.
