On May 7, 2025, India launched "Operation Sindoor," a series of precision military strikes against Pakistan. This action was in retaliation for the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists, including 25 Indians and one Nepalese national. The Indian government attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militant groups, prompting a coordinated response involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
🎯 Strategic Targets and Execution
The operation focused on neutralizing terrorist infrastructures and air defence systems across multiple Pakistani cities. Key targets included:
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Lahore and Sialkot: Air defence units suffered significant damage from drone strikes.
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Bahawalpur and Muridke: Identified as hubs for groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, these areas faced targeted assaults.
India employed advanced weaponry, including HAROP drones and Akash missiles, to ensure precision and minimize collateral damage.
🛡️ Pakistan's Retaliation and Escalation
In response, Pakistan launched drone and missile attacks aimed at Indian military targets in regions such as Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, and others. India's Integrated Counter UAS Grid and Air Defence systems successfully neutralized these threats. However, the exchanges led to civilian casualties on both sides, intensifying tensions along the Line of Control.
🌐 International Concerns and Calls for Restraint
The escalation has raised alarms globally, given the nuclear capabilities of both nations. International leaders, including those from the UN, US, UK, China, and Russia, have urged both countries to exercise restraint and engage in diplomatic dialogues to prevent further deterioration of regional stability.