Operation Sindoor: India Strikes Targets in Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions
New Delhi/Islamabad – In a dramatic escalation of hostilities between India and Pakistan, the Indian military has launched a series of missile strikes early Wednesday on multiple locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, in what has been dubbed Operation Sindoor. The attacks come in response to the recent Pahalgam assault, which left at least 26 people dead in the Indian-administered region of Kashmir.
What Was Targeted and Why?
According to Indian military officials, nine strategic sites were struck across six Pakistani cities, all reportedly linked to militant operations and alleged support infrastructure. The Indian government claims the operation was a pre-emptive strike to neutralize what it described as “imminent threats.”
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, stated that at least 26 civilians were killed in the attacks. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) media wing confirmed that Pakistan’s air defence systems had retaliated, allegedly shooting down multiple Indian military aircraft.
Why These Cities?
Military analysts suggest that the locations targeted by India may have held symbolic and strategic value—either as known militant hubs or as logistical points connected to past cross-border attacks. While India has not officially named all locations, reports indicate that areas near Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Rawalakot were among those hit.
“These strikes are meant to send a signal, both domestically and internationally, that India will respond with force to any terrorist provocation,” said a retired Indian Army general on condition of anonymity.
Political and Military Statements
India’s Defence Ministry has stated that the operation was “measured, intelligence-led, and necessary”, claiming it avoided civilian infrastructure “as far as possible.” On the other hand, Pakistan has strongly condemned the strikes, calling them “an unprovoked act of aggression” and warned of “consequences.”
A Region on the Brink?
This exchange marks one of the most serious escalations between the nuclear-armed rivals since the Balakot airstrike in 2019. Analysts fear that continued tit-for-tat retaliation could bring the region closer to a broader conflict, especially given both countries’ hardened rhetoric and strained diplomatic ties.