The escalating tensions between India and Pakistan have reached a critical point following a series of events, including the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent "Operation Sindoor" by the Indian Armed Forces. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has asserted India's firm stance against terrorism and has vowed a "very, very firm response" to any retaliation from Pakistan.

Operation Sindoor: India's Retaliation

"Operation Sindoor" was launched by the Indian Armed Forces as a targeted response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed. The operation involved precision strikes on nine high-value terror targets located inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). These locations were reportedly used by terror groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The strikes were conducted with coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, utilizing advanced precision weapons and intelligence-based targeting. According to Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force, the locations were carefully selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructure and loss of civilian lives.

EAM Jaishankar has reiterated India's "zero tolerance" stance against terrorism, emphasizing that the world must unite against this global threat. Following the strikes, India briefed several world capitals about its actions, with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval speaking to his US counterpart and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Pakistan's Response and Escalation

In response to "Operation Sindoor," Pakistan has reportedly launched a coordinated drone and missile offensive targeting military installations and civilian areas in India. Pakistani troops initiated heavy shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in areas such as Poonch, Uri, Kupwara and Rajouri. Shelling in Gulmarg and other areas has forced families to flee, seeking shelter in government buildings. India has accused Pakistan of specifically targeting the Sikh community in Jammu and Kashmir, with attacks on a gurudwara and Sikh homes in Poonch resulting in casualties.

India claims to have neutralized Pakistan's attempts to hit military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur with missiles and drones. Loud explosions were reported in Jammu city, followed by a total blackout. The Indian Army stated that it effectively repulsed multiple attacks by Pakistan along the western border. India's S-400 air defense system was reportedly used to intercept hostile missiles at multiple locations.

Impact on Civilian Population

The escalating conflict has had a severe impact on the civilian population in border areas. In Uri, a 45-year-old woman was killed, and two others were injured when a Pakistani artillery shell hit their vehicle. Residents reported that Pakistani troops targeted multiple civilian settlements, damaging homes and infrastructure. Civilians in border villages are bearing the brunt of the situation, with many suffering damage to their livelihoods. The ongoing shelling has caused distress and displacement, with many residents seeking shelter in bunkers or government buildings.

International Implications and India's Stance

EAM Jaishankar discussed "Operation Sindoor" with his Iranian counterpart, emphasizing India's commitment to countering terrorism. He clarified that India does not seek further escalation but will respond firmly to any military attacks. India has conveyed its resolve to bring the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice, engaging with counterparts from non-permanent member nations of the United Nations Security Council.

The recent events have led to heightened security measures, including the temporary shutdown of airports in several states. The Kartarpur Corridor has also been closed until further orders. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has suspended the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL) indefinitely due to the tensions.