On the night of May 6-7, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces executed a meticulously planned operation, dubbed "Operation Sindoor," targeting nine terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PoK). This decisive military action came as a direct response to the brutal attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu-Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, including Indian citizens and one Nepali national.
According to Colonel Safia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who provided details at a press conference, the operation lasted just 25 minutes and involved coordinated strikes on terrorist hideouts associated with groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The operation was characterized as a precise and focused assault, ensuring that no civilian casualties occurred.
"We targeted nine locations, completely destroying terrorist camps," Colonel Qureshi stated, emphasizing that the operation was conducted based on intelligence inputs from various agencies. The primary targets included key training centers and launch pads that have been used to orchestrate attacks against India for decades.
The strikes were executed between 1:05 AM and 1:30 AM, with the Indian Air Force employing advanced weaponry, including loitering munitions, to ensure accuracy. The specific sites targeted included the Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur and the Markaz Tayyaba in Muridke, both known strongholds of terrorist operations.
In a show of military prowess, India managed to eliminate over 100 terrorists during this operation. Among those killed were members of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Maulana Masood Azhar's family, with reports indicating that ten family members and four associates perished in the strikes.
"This operation is a strong message to those who orchestrate terror against India," stated Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who closely monitored the operation throughout the night. He lauded the efforts of the armed forces, describing it as a reflection of a "new India" that is no longer hesitant to respond to threats.
Pakistan's response to the airstrikes has been one of outrage and denial. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif condemned India's actions, labeling them as cowardly attacks and asserting that Pakistan has the right to defend itself against such aggression. He claimed that the strikes targeted civilian areas, a statement that India firmly refutes.
Following the airstrikes, Pakistan's military reported civilian casualties, including the deaths of 26 individuals, among them children and women. This has led to heightened tensions along the Line of Control (LoC), with reports of ongoing exchanges of fire between Indian and Pakistani forces in the region.
In light of the escalating situation, the Indian government has taken precautionary measures, including shutting down schools and colleges in border areas like Jammu, Samba, and Rajouri. The Indian Air Force has been actively patrolling the skies, ensuring readiness for any potential retaliation from Pakistan.
The operation comes two weeks after the Pahalgam attack, where terrorists targeted tourists, resulting in a national outcry for justice. The Indian government has made it clear that it will hold those responsible for such heinous acts accountable.
"Operation Sindoor is not just a military action; it is a commitment to our citizens that we will not allow terrorism to thrive on our borders," Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated during a press briefing. He praised the armed forces for their precision and restraint, emphasizing that the operation was focused solely on terrorist infrastructure.
International reactions to the operation have been mixed. The United States, under President Donald Trump, expressed concern over the potential for escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Trump stated, "This is a dangerous situation, and I hope both countries will find a way to resolve their differences peacefully."
In contrast, countries like the UK and Israel have shown support for India's right to defend itself against terrorism. Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak remarked that no country should tolerate terrorist attacks on its soil and commended India's actions as justified.
As the situation continues to develop, both India and Pakistan remain on high alert. The Pakistani military has reportedly enhanced its defensive posture, and there are fears of further military engagement in the region. Local populations in border areas have been advised to remain vigilant and prepared for any eventualities.
In summary, Operation Sindoor marks a significant escalation in India's military response to terrorism emanating from Pakistan. It underscores India's commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and protecting its citizens from terror threats. The international community watches closely as both nations navigate this precarious situation, hoping for a peaceful resolution amidst rising tensions.
