Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following a recent terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. In response, India has launched what it is calling "Operation Sindoor," targeting alleged terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
The operation, which commenced on May 6, 2025, involved missile strikes on nine sites. According to Indian government sources, the targeted locations were being used to plan and direct terrorist attacks against India. The Indian government has described the strikes as "focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature," emphasizing that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted and that considerable restraint was exercised in selecting targets and methods.
Pakistan has confirmed the strikes, reporting that missiles hit locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, specifically Kotli and Muzaffarabad, as well as Ahmed Pur East in the Bahawalpur District of Punjab. The Director-General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) stated that three Pakistani civilians were killed and twelve others injured in what he termed a "cowardly attack". Pakistani officials have also stated that a mosque was among the buildings hit. Pakistan's military has vowed to respond to the strikes "at a time and place of its own choosing".
The strikes follow a terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir, where 26 people, mostly Hindu tourists, were killed. India has blamed Pakistan-based militants for the attack, leading to a rapid deterioration in bilateral relations. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, India initiated the expulsion of Pakistani diplomats, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed borders, and revoked visas for Pakistani nationals. Pakistan has denied any involvement in the attack.
The international community has reacted with concern, with the United Nations urging both sides to exercise "maximum restraint" and resolve the issues diplomatically. Several countries have issued travel advisories for the region.
