The conflict between India and Pakistan has intensified following India’s nine missile strikes on sites in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab province. India claims the strikes targeted ”terrorist infrastructure”, while Pakistan reports civilian casualties and retaliatory actions.
India’s Military Operation
India’s Defense Ministry stated that as it launched missile strikes on multiple locations in a Pakistan-controlled territory, killing at least eight people and injuring dozens.
the Indian Defense ministry added that the strikes were precision attacks aimed at militant infrastructure, following last month’s deadly attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir. India blames Pakistan-backed militants for the attack—an allegation Islamabad denies.
Pakistan’s Response
In response the Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif, reported that the missile strikes injured at least 38 people across the affected sites, including a child killed when a missile struck a mosque in Bahawalpur. In retaliation, Pakistan’s Air Defense Corps reportedly downed two Indian Rafale fighter jets. Additionally, passenger aircraft flying in Pakistani airspace were **rerouted to land at Karachi Airport.
Border Clashes and Artillery Fire
The Indian army reported that Pakistani forces opened artillery fire along the Line of Control, leading to exchanges of fire in multiple sectors. The situation remains volatile, with both nations on high alert.
International Reactions
The United Nations and several world leaders have urged both nations to exercise restraint. The U.S. Secretary of State stated that the situation is being closely monitored, expressing hope for a peaceful resolution.
This developing crisis has raised concerns about the stability of the region, given that both India and Pakistan are nuclear-armed nations. The international community is calling for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.
