In a sudden escalation, India launched a series of airstrikes targeting multiple locations within Pakistan late Monday night. According to Indian officials, these strikes were in retaliation for the recent attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed the lives of 26 Hindu pilgrims.
India has named the operation “Operation Sindoor,” focusing on what it claims were terrorist camps of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated that the strikes were “measured” and deliberately avoided Pakistani military installations. Indian sources report that the operation lasted 23 minutes, using Rafale fighter jets and precision-guided SCALP missiles.
Among the reported targets were locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Muzaffarabad. Indian intelligence claims high-value militant leaders, including Yusuf Azhar, Rauf Azhar, and Abu Jundal, were among those killed. Singh asserted that over 100 militants were eliminated across nine camps.
However, Pakistan has vehemently condemned the strikes, calling them a breach of its sovereignty and a violation of international law. Islamabad claims six areas were hit, with at least 26 civilians killed and 46 others injured. Among the casualties were women and children. Pakistani officials have dismissed India’s claims of targeting only militants, stating that the attacks struck civilian neighborhoods and religious establishments.
In response, Pakistan has reportedly shot down five Indian aircraft and placed its forces on high alert. The country’s leadership has warned that they are prepared to take “appropriate retaliatory measures” if further aggression occurs.
International observers have expressed concern over the escalating conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, urging restraint and dialogue.
Source : The Daily Amader Shomoy
