In a significant escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian armed forces launched "Operation Sindoor" early on May 7, 2025, targeting nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This military action comes in response to a brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen, on April 22, 2025.
The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) stated that the operation was focused, measured, and non-escalatory, emphasizing that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted. This restraint was highlighted in a recent statement where the MoD noted, "We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable." A detailed briefing on the operation is expected later today.
According to reports, India struck several locations in Pakistan, including Muridke and Bahawalpur, known strongholds for terror groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The strikes specifically targeted infrastructure believed to be used for planning attacks against India. The Indian military asserted that their actions were designed to be precise and responsible, targeting only known terror camps.
In retaliation, Pakistan's military claimed to have shot down two Indian aircraft during the strikes, although this assertion remains unverified. The Pakistani government reported that at least three individuals were killed due to the strikes, which hit five locations, including three in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and two in Punjab province.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the Indian attack, labeling it an "act of war" and stating, "Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India." He expressed confidence in the capabilities of the Pakistani armed forces, declaring, "The Pakistani nation and the Pakistani armed forces know how to deal with the enemy."
Former Pakistani ambassador to the United States, Maleeha Lodhi, expressed concern about the escalating situation, suggesting that U.S. intervention may be necessary to prevent further escalation, particularly in a nuclear context. She remarked, "The situation now needs to be controlled as further escalation in a nuclear environment is fraught with great risks."
Security analyst Qamar Cheema criticized India for failing to provide evidence to the international community that its military actions were justified. He stated, "India has failed to give any evidence to the international community that the attack was warranted."
The recent military actions have heightened tensions that have been brewing since the Pahalgam attack, which saw gunmen massacre tourists in the region. Following the attack, India accused Pakistan of being complicit and vowed to retaliate against those responsible. Islamabad has consistently denied these allegations.
In light of the escalating conflict, the United Nations has called for maximum military restraint from both nations. A spokesperson urged both sides to de-escalate the situation to prevent further violence.
On the diplomatic front, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio shortly after the missile strikes, briefing him on the actions taken by the Indian armed forces. The Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C., reiterated that the strikes were focused and non-escalatory, stating, "Only known terror camps were targeted."
In response to the changing airspace conditions due to the military operations, IndiGo Airlines issued a travel advisory affecting flights to and from several cities, including Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala. Passengers were advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the situation, expressing hope that the conflict between India and Pakistan would be resolved quickly. He stated, "I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. It's a shame."
As the situation unfolds, both nations remain on high alert, with the potential for further military actions looming. The international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can prevent further loss of life and stabilize the region.
