In a significant escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. These precision strikes were in retaliation for the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 Indian tourists.
Operation Sindoor: The 9 Terror Targets
The operation focused on dismantling infrastructure associated with terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). The targeted sites included:
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Bahawalpur (Punjab) – JeM’s headquarters; reports indicate the death of 10 family members of leader Masood Azhar.
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Muridke (Punjab) – LeT’s primary base; an educational complex was reportedly damaged.
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Tehra Kalan (Punjab) – Known for militant training activities.
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Sialkot (Punjab) – Suspected launchpad for cross-border infiltrations.
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Kotli (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) – JeM operational hub.
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Muzaffarabad (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) – LeT stronghold; a mosque was reportedly damaged.
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Bhimber (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) – Logistics and weapons storage site.
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Rawalakot (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) – Training facility for militants.
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Chakothi (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) – Staging area for infiltration attempts.
The Indian Air Force executed 24 missile strikes using Rafale jets equipped with SCALP and AASM Hammer missiles. The operation lasted approximately 23 minutes and was described by Indian officials as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” emphasizing that no Pakistani military installations were targeted.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan condemned the strikes as an “act of war,” claiming civilian casualties, including children. The Pakistani military reported that it had shot down several Indian aircraft and drones, though these claims remain unverified. In retaliation, Pakistan conducted artillery shelling across the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in civilian casualties on both sides.
Poonch Attack: The Triggering Incident
Prior to Operation Sindoor, tensions escalated due to an attack on an Indian Air Force (IAF) convoy in the Surankote area of Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir. On May 6, 2025, terrorists ambushed the convoy, injuring five IAF personnel. One of the injured, Corporal Vikky Pahade, later succumbed to his injuries. Eyewitnesses reported a 20-minute gunfight, causing panic among local residents.
The attack is suspected to have been orchestrated by Lashkar-e-Taiba operative Sajid Jutt. In response, security forces launched a massive search operation in the region to apprehend the perpetrators.
International Reactions
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating conflict. Countries including the United States, United Kingdom, China, and Russia have urged both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further deterioration of regional stability.
