Intense Clashes Between India and Pakistan in Kashmir; Exchange of Fire and Mutual Missile Attacks
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated rapidly following Tuesday’s terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir (which resulted in 27 tourist deaths). The Indian government held Pakistan responsible and retaliated with missile and air strikes on alleged terror targets in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.
India’s Initial Attack and Both Sides’ Claims
India’s military reported striking 9 locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir in a calculated operation. Indian officials described these as “terror bases,” while Pakistan claimed the attacks hit civilian areas including a dam and mosques, causing civilian casualties.
Intense Clashes Between India and Pakistan in Kashmir
Pakistan condemned India’s attacks as “violations of national sovereignty” and launched missile and air strikes against Indian targets in Kashmir. Pakistani sources claimed to have shot down Indian jets including Rafale aircraft, which India denied.
Conflict Spreads to LOC (Line of Control)
Clashes spread along the border with intense artillery exchanges in areas like Poonch, Rajouri and Bimber Gali. Local sources reported explosions near Muzaffarabad and that Pakistani missiles hit an air base in Srinagar.
Political and Security Responses
Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif called India’s attacks “cowardly” while asserting their right to self-defense. India suspended the Indus Water Treaty and expelled Pakistani diplomats. Pakistan closed the Wagah border crossing and froze economic relations.
Civilian Casualties and Damage
At least 26 Pakistani civilians and several Indians were reported killed or wounded. International organizations expressed concern over the escalating crisis between the two nuclear powers.
Note:
The LOC (Line of Control) is the 740 km military demarcation established after the 1971 war that effectively divides Kashmir. Recent clashes have concentrated along the Poonch-Rajouri sector.
