Rising Tensions Between India and Pakistan: “Operation Sindoor” and Retaliatory Actions
On May 6, 2025, India launched a military campaign titled “Operation Sindoor,” carrying out missile strikes on nine different locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This offensive was in response to a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, in which 26 people were killed.
Indian authorities claim the targeted sites were alleged hideouts of militant groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. However, Pakistani officials have rejected this claim, stating that the strikes hit civilian areas, including a mosque in Bahawalpur. According to official Pakistani sources, at least 8 civilians were killed and 38 others injured in the attacks.
In retaliation, Pakistan claims to have shot down multiple Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, one MiG-29, and one SU-30. In addition, a Heron drone was also reported to have been destroyed.
The Pakistan Armed Forces not only defended their airspace but also carried out missile strikes into Indian-administered Kashmir. These strikes reportedly targeted and destroyed a brigade headquarters, with civilian and military casualties being reported.
Given the gravity of the situation, international reactions have begun to surface. U.S. President Donald Trump described the rising tensions as “shameful” and expressed hope that the issue would be resolved diplomatically. The U.S. government has initiated immediate diplomatic engagement, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio establishing contact with both Indian and Pakistani leaderships to urge restraint and de-escalation.
In this context, the United Nations and other international bodies have voiced serious concerns over the possibility of further escalation between the two nuclear-armed nations. There have been widespread calls for both sides to exercise restraint and seek a peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels, to ensure regional stability and peace.
This report is based on coverage from reputable sources including Al Jazeera, The Washington Post, Politico, and The Guardian.
