Tensions between India and Pakistan have intensified after a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, and subsequent Indian military strikes in Pakistan.
The Pahalgam Attack
On April 22, 2025, gunmen attacked a group of tourists in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, resulting in the deaths of 26 individuals, predominantly Hindu pilgrims. The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack. India accused Pakistan of supporting the attackers, a claim Pakistan denies.
Operation Sindoor
In response, on May 6, 2025, India launched "Operation Sindoor," targeting nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, which India identified as terrorist infrastructure linked to the Pahalgam attack. India described the strikes as "focused, measured, and non-escalatory," emphasizing that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted.
Pakistan reported that the strikes resulted in at least three civilian deaths, including a child, and injured 12 others. Pakistan condemned the strikes as an unprovoked "act of war" and claimed to have shot down two Indian jets in response.
Diplomatic Fallout
The incident has led to a significant diplomatic breakdown between the two nations. Both countries have expelled each other's diplomats, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed airspace to each other's airlines, and shut their only open land border.
International Reactions
International leaders have expressed concern over the escalating tensions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for military restraint, emphasizing that "the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan." U.S. President Donald Trump labeled India's strikes as "a shame" and urged both sides to exercise restraint.
Current Situation
Both nations have increased military activity along the Line of Control, with reports of ongoing exchanges of fire. India has initiated nationwide civil defense drills, including air raid warnings and evacuation protocols. Pakistan has declared a state of emergency in Punjab and suspended commercial flights.
The situation remains volatile, with the international community urging both nuclear-armed neighbors to de-escalate tensions and engage in dialogue to prevent further conflict.
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