In a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, India launched “Operation Sindoor” on May 7, 2025, targeting nine alleged terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The operation, described by the Indian government as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” aimed to dismantle infrastructure linked to groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The strikes were conducted in the early hours and involved coordinated air and missile attacks.

On April 22, 2025, five militants attacked tourists in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Anantnag district, resulting in 26 deaths, including Indian and Nepali nationals. The assailants, armed with M4 carbines and AK-47s, specifically targeted Hindu tourists, separating them based on religious identity before executing them. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers demanded victims recite Islamic verses to determine their faith. The attack was captured on video by a tourist, leading to widespread outrage across India.

The Indian Ministry of Defence confirmed that the strikes were aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure linked to groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. Key locations targeted included Muridke and Bahawalpur, known for housing militant group facilities. The operation utilized Rafale jets armed with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, delivering precise strikes over a 23-minute window. India reported the elimination of approximately 70 terrorists within 24 hours of the strikes.

Pakistan reported 26 civilian deaths and 46 injuries as a result of the strikes, including a child. The Pakistani military claimed to have shot down five Indian aircraft and destroyed a brigade headquarters, although these claims have not been independently verified. India has not confirmed any losses of its aircraft. Both nations engaged in heavy cross-border shelling, leading to casualties on both sides.

The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan, emphasizing that “the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.” China expressed regret over the military operation and urged both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability. The United States and the United Kingdom have also called for de-escalation and offered to mediate between the two nations.

India justifies the strikes under its inherent right to self-defense, as recognized by customary international law and Article 51 of the UN Charter. The Indian government asserts that the strikes were a necessary response to prevent future terrorist attacks, citing intelligence reports indicating imminent threats.

Operation Sindoor marks a significant development in the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict, highlighting the complexities of preemptive military action and its implications for regional stability. As both nations continue to engage in military actions and rhetoric, the international community remains vigilant, urging both sides to prioritize dialogue and peaceful resolution to avoid further escalation.

Published: 7th May 2025

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