In a dramatic escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday, May 7, 2025, targeting nine sites in Pakistan-controlled territories and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK). This operation comes as a direct retaliation for the deadly April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including one Nepali national.
According to a statement from India’s Ministry of Defence, the operation struck nine sites identified as bases from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. The strikes were described as "focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature," deliberately avoiding any Pakistani military installations.
"India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the ministry emphasized. The operation, which lasted just 25 minutes, reportedly resulted in the deaths of more than 80 terrorists linked to banned outfits such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen.
In response to the strikes, Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, confirmed that the strikes occurred and claimed that they were conducted using missiles fired from within Indian territory. He reported that the death toll from the strikes had climbed to eight civilians, with around 38 others injured.
"We have confirmation that a mosque was struck in Ahmedpur East, and ordinance landed near a house," Chaudhry stated, highlighting the civilian impact of the operation. He condemned the strikes as a "heinous provocation" and asserted that Pakistan would respond at a time of its choosing.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan termed the assault a "blatant act of war" and vowed a forceful response. He stated, "The entire nation stands with the Pakistani armed forces, and the morale and spirit of the entire Pakistani nation are high. The Pakistani nation and the Pakistani armed forces know how to deal with the enemy. We will never allow the enemy to succeed in their nefarious goals."
The operation targeted key infrastructure of the terrorist organizations, including the JeM headquarters in Bahawalpur and the LeT's base in Muridke. Other significant targets included training camps and launch pads used by these groups, located both in Pakistan and PoK.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed pride in the Indian Armed Forces, posting on social media, "Bharat Mata ki Jai" shortly after the operation commenced. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, also expressed their support for the military action, stating, "Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind!"
In light of the escalating tensions, India has placed its air defence units along the border on high alert. This precautionary measure aims to ensure readiness in case of further escalation from Pakistan, which has reportedly initiated heavy cross-border shelling along the Line of Control, resulting in the deaths of three Indian civilians.
In the aftermath of the strikes, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced a nationwide disruption of air traffic, grounding all domestic and international flights. Passengers were urged to avoid airports and await further instructions as authorities assessed the security situation.
Experts suggest that the strikes are reminiscent of previous Indian military actions across the Line of Control, such as the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, both aimed at curtailing cross-border terrorism. The precision strikes under Operation Sindoor have been characterized as the most expansive military action since Balakot, indicating India's resolve to confront terrorism emanating from Pakistan.
Political leaders across India have rallied around the military's actions, with various politicians praising the strikes as a necessary response to the ongoing threat posed by terrorist organizations operating from within Pakistan. Congress leader Kharge stated, "We applaud armed forces' resolute resolve and courage. We are extremely proud of our Indian armed forces who have struck terror camps in Pakistan."
As tensions continue to rise, international observers are closely monitoring the situation, with calls for restraint coming from various global leaders. The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both countries to exercise maximum military restraint amidst the heightened hostilities.
The Indian government has reached out to several leading nations, including the United States, Russia, and the United Kingdom, to brief them on the military actions taken. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope that the situation would end quickly and emphasized the importance of engaging both Indian and Pakistani leadership toward a peaceful resolution.
In summary, Operation Sindoor marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan, with both nations facing increased military readiness and the potential for further confrontations. The international community watches closely as the situation unfolds, hoping for a resolution that will bring stability to the region.
