On May 7, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, a series of precision air and missile strikes targeting nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This action was in direct response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 Indian tourists.

Objectives and Execution

The operation aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure linked to groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Key targets included:

• Bahawalpur: Known as a JeM stronghold.
• Muridke: Associated with LeT activities.
• Muzaffarabad and Kotli: Locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir with reported militant presence.

The Indian Air Force utilized Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs during the 23-minute operation.

Casualties and Damage

India reported that the strikes successfully neutralized terrorist facilities without causing civilian casualties. However, Pakistan claimed that the attacks resulted in 31 civilian deaths and 57 injuries, including women and children.

Escalation and Retaliation

In response, Pakistan’s military stated that it had shot down five Indian aircraft, a claim that India disputed. Subsequent exchanges included artillery shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), leading to additional casualties on both sides. (Reuters, The Guardian)

International Reactions

The escalation raised concerns among global leaders. The United Nations, United States, China, and European Union called for restraint and emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further deterioration of regional stability.