In a significant escalation of hostilities, India launched a series of missile strikes on May 6, 2025, targeting alleged terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The operation, codenamed “Operation Sindoor,” was a direct response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen.

Operation Sindoor: The Airstrikes

The Indian Armed Forces conducted precision strikes on nine terrorist locations, including areas in Muzaffarabad and Kotli in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, as well as Bahawalpur in Pakistan’s Punjab province. These sites were identified as strongholds of terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The Indian Ministry of Defence stated that the strikes were “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” aiming to minimize civilian casualties and avoid targeting Pakistani military installations.

Casualties and Damage

According to Pakistani officials, the missile attacks resulted in at least eight civilian deaths and 35 injuries. Notably, a mosque in Bahawalpur was reportedly struck, leading to the death of a child and injuries to two adults. Pakistan’s military claims to have shot down five Indian fighter jets and a drone in retaliation, though these claims have not been independently verified.

Pakistan’s Response

Pakistan has condemned the airstrikes as a “blatant act of war,” asserting that the attacks targeted civilian areas and violated international law. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed a robust response, stating that Pakistan reserves the right to retaliate at a time and place of its choosing. In the aftermath, Pakistan closed its airspace, declared a state of emergency in certain regions, and reported artillery exchanges along the Line of Control (LoC).

International Reactions

The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged both countries to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation. U.S. President Donald Trump described the situation as “a shame” and emphasized the need for a swift resolution.

Ongoing Developments

As of May 7, 2025, the situation remains volatile, with continued military activity reported along the LoC. Both nations have mobilized forces, and there is heightened alertness in border regions. The potential for further escalation remains high, prompting calls from global leaders for immediate de-escalation and renewed diplomatic efforts.

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