Posted on May 7, 2025
On May 6, 2025, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a series of precision air and missile strikes targeting nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The operation was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, where 27 civilians, including 25 Hindu tourists, were killed by militants. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based terrorist groups, prompting a decisive military action.
The Pahalgam Attack: Catalyst for Action
The Pahalgam attack occurred in the Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. Five militants, armed with M4 carbines and AK-47s, opened fire on unarmed tourists, resulting in 27 deaths and over 20 injuries. The Resistance Front (TRF), a group linked to Pakistan-based organizations, claimed responsibility. India accused Pakistan of supporting these militants, an allegation Pakistan denied.
Execution of Operation Sindoor
In the early hours of May 6, the Indian Air Force executed Operation Sindoor, deploying Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs. The 23-minute operation targeted nine sites, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, Tehra Kalan, Sialkot, Bhimber, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad. These locations were identified as hubs for terrorist organizations such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
India emphasized that the strikes were “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” aiming solely at terrorist infrastructure without targeting Pakistani military facilities. The operation was conducted without Indian aircraft entering Pakistani airspace, utilizing stand-off weapons to minimize risk.
Casualties and Damage
India reported the elimination of over 70 militants and injuries to 60 others. Pakistan, however, reported nine civilian deaths, including a child, and 38 injuries. Among the damaged structures were mosques and residential buildings, leading to widespread condemnation from Pakistan. Additionally, a Pakistani JF-17 fighter jet was reportedly shot down by India during the operation.
Diplomatic Fallout and International Reactions
The operation led to a significant diplomatic rift between the two nations. India expelled Pakistani diplomats, suspended visa services, and withdrew from the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan responded by closing its airspace to Indian aircraft, suspending the Shimla Agreement, and halting trade relations
Internationally, the United Nations and countries like the United States and China urged both nations to exercise restraint. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need to avoid a military confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbors. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed concern over the escalating tensions, calling the situation “a shame” and hoping for a swift resolution.
Broader Implications
Operation Sindoor marks a significant escalation in the long-standing India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir. The operation underscores India’s willingness to take decisive military action in response to terrorist attacks attributed to Pakistan-based groups. The ensuing diplomatic and military responses highlight the fragile nature of peace in the region and the potential for rapid escalation.
As both nations navigate the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, the international community remains watchful, emphasizing dialogue and restraint to prevent further deterioration of relations and ensure regional stability.