The Indian armed forces have executed 'Operation Sindoor', a targeted action against terrorist infrastructure located in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation comes days after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, and was confirmed through official statements and social media posts. The Indian Army, in a resolute post on social media platform X, declared, "Justice is Served. Jai Hind!" signaling the commencement and intent of the operation.
The Ministry of Defence subsequently released a statement elaborating on the nature of 'Operation Sindoor'. "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the ministry stated.
Focused and Non-Escalatory Action
The Ministry of Defence emphasized the precise and controlled nature of the operation, assuring that it was not intended to escalate tensions. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. The ministry also indicated that a more detailed briefing regarding 'Operation Sindoor' would be held later in the day.
Earlier in the day, the Indian Army had posted a Sanskrit phrase on X, "प्रहाराय सन्निहिताः, जयाय प्रशिक्षिताः" (Ready to Strike, Trained to Win), hinting at an imminent action.
Pahalgam Terror Attack
This military action comes in the wake of a devastating terror attack in south Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22nd, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 people, predominantly tourists. Following the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had strongly condemned the perpetrators and vowed to bring them to justice, stating they would be pursued “to the ends of the earth.”
Interestingly, the announcement of 'Operation Sindoor' coincides with the Ministry of Home Affairs' planned nationwide civil defence mock drill, scheduled for today, May 7. This exercise, set to cover 244 districts across the country, aims to bolster emergency preparedness in light of heightened security concerns following the Pahalgam attack.
An official communication from the Directorate General of Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards outlined that the mock drills would involve operationalizing air-raid warning sirens, clearing and restoring bunkers and trenches, and training civilians on protective measures during hostile attacks. While the civil defence drill focuses on internal preparedness, 'Operation Sindoor' signifies a direct response to the cross-border terrorism that India believes is emanating from Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
International Reactions
US President Donald Trump reacted to India's Operation Sindoor, expressing hope that the escalation ends quickly. "It's a shame. We just heard about it as we were walking in the doors of the Oval. Just heard about it," Trump said, noting that the conflict between India and Pakistan has persisted for centuries. He added, "I hope it ends very quickly."
Following the Pahalgam attack, the US reaffirmed its support for India in combating terrorism. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions with Indian and Pakistani leaders, urging them to de-escalate tensions and work towards maintaining peace in South Asia.
Meanwhile, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned India's actions, labeling them an "act of war" and claiming civilian targets were hit. He stated that Pakistan would respond appropriately, emphasizing the need to protect the nation's sovereignty.
Details of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor was characterized by precision strikes against nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including known headquarters of militant groups. The operation utilized beyond-visual-range and standoff weapons, showcasing India's military capabilities.
Officials reported that the strikes targeted significant locations associated with terrorist activities, including the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke and the Jaish-e-Mohammad in Bahawalpur. The operation was executed with precision, as the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force coordinated their efforts using advanced weaponry.
The Indian military statement noted, "Our actions have been focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution." This assertion aimed to quell concerns about an escalation of hostilities.
In response, Pakistan's military reported that three locations were targeted, leading to casualties among civilians, which Pakistan's Defense Minister condemned as a violation of international law. He asserted that the sites struck were civilian, not militant camps, countering India's narrative of targeting terrorists.
Escalating Tensions
The military actions led to a significant increase in tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations, with reports of heavy artillery exchanges along the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistan declared an emergency in its Punjab province and closed airports in Lahore and Sialkot for 48 hours following the strikes.
As the situation continues to evolve, both nations remain on high alert. India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval briefed US officials on the developments, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and India's commitment to holding those responsible for the Pahalgam attack accountable.
While the international community watches closely, the implications of Operation Sindoor extend beyond immediate military actions, impacting regional stability and international relations.
As tensions mount, the world awaits further developments, hoping for a resolution that ensures peace and security in South Asia.
