In a dramatic escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, authorities in Rawalpindi have imposed a complete citywide blackout from 7 PM to 5 AM as a precautionary security measure. This directive, issued late on May 7, 2025, comes in the wake of India's missile strikes targeting multiple locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), which resulted in significant civilian casualties.
The blackout is designed to enhance security and operational readiness amid fears of further military action. According to the official notification, all street lights must remain off during the night, and residents are instructed to turn off exterior lights, including those in porches, driveways, and rooftops. Citizens have also been urged to cover windows and minimize indoor lighting, with a strong recommendation to avoid unnecessary travel during the blackout hours.
These measures follow India's late-night missile attacks on civilian areas across six Pakistani cities, which left at least 30 civilians dead and over 45 injured. The attacks have been described by Pakistani officials as a declaration of war, executed under the cover of darkness. In response, Pakistan's armed forces claimed to have shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft, and destroyed several military installations, including a brigade headquarters.
Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar stated that Pakistan's counteroffensive operations are ongoing, with military forces on high alert. He noted that the response inflicted severe losses on India, including the downing of a drone and the destruction of key border posts. The heightened military activity has prompted the Rawalpindi administration to prioritize national security as tensions escalate in the region.
In the early hours of the same day, India launched what it has termed "Operation Sindoor," targeting terror-linked infrastructure in Pakistan as well as PoK. This operation is reported to involve a coordinated tri-service military effort, employing the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Preliminary reports indicate that the Indian Air Force deployed advanced Rafale fighter jets, which launched SCALP and Hammer precision-guided missiles against high-value targets.
According to sources, the strikes successfully hit nine separate targets, including known strongholds of militant groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Bahawalpur, a city long associated with JeM, and Muridke, home to LeT's base, were among the locations targeted.
The Indian government has stated that these actions are "focused, measured, and non-escalatory" and emphasized that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted during the operation. This claim is intended to convey that India's response is aimed solely at combating terrorism linked to recent attacks, particularly the massacre of 26 civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
In light of these developments, panic has gripped Pakistan, prompting the closure of airports in Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi until May 10, 2025. The Civil Aviation Authority has stated that these closures are necessary due to security concerns stemming from the ongoing military operations.
Additionally, specific portions of Karachi and Lahore's Flight Information Regions will remain closed daily from 4 AM to 8 AM throughout May, further complicating air travel in the region. The authorities have reassured the public that commercial flight operations will not be significantly disrupted, as aircraft will be rerouted during the restricted hours.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed hope that the situation will "end very quickly," acknowledging the long history of conflict between India and Pakistan. Following India's strikes, the U.S. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval briefed his American counterparts, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, about the operation. Rubio has indicated that he is closely monitoring the situation and will engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership to pursue a peaceful resolution.
As the situation continues to unfold, both nations remain on high alert, with military operations intensifying in the region. The international community is watching closely, as the potential for escalation remains a significant concern. The Pakistani administration's blackout measures reflect the seriousness of the current security climate, as citizens are urged to comply with the directives for their safety.
In this volatile environment, the importance of communication and transparency from both governments is paramount. The ongoing military actions and their implications for regional stability underscore the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent further loss of life.
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