India Launches Operation Sindoor: Airstrikes on Pakistan Escalate Regional Tensions
On May 6, 2025, India initiated a significant military operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor, targeting nine sites within Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This action was in direct response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, predominantly Indian tourists. India attributes the attack to Pakistan-based militant groups, specifically Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), both of which have a history of cross-border terrorism.
The Indian Air Force executed precision strikes using advanced weaponry, including loitering drones and SCALP missiles, aiming to dismantle what it identified as terrorist infrastructure. The targeted sites were believed to be operational bases for LeT, JeM, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Pakistan condemned the strikes as an "act of war," asserting that civilian areas, including mosques, were affected, resulting in at least 26 fatalities and 46 injuries. In retaliation, Pakistan authorized corresponding military actions, leading to artillery exchanges along the Line of Control (LoC) and claims of downing five Indian aircraft—a claim not confirmed by India.
This escalation has disrupted air travel across the region and prompted mass evacuations in border areas. International actors, including China, Russia, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have urged both nations to exercise restraint and offered to mediate to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Operation Sindoor draws parallels to the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, where India targeted a JeM training camp in Pakistan following the Pulwama attack. However, the current operation signifies a more extensive and assertive military approach, reflecting India's evolving counter-terrorism strategy.
For a visual report on the recent developments, you can watch the following video:
