Wed May 07 03:50:00 UTC 2025: ## India Launches Airstrikes on Pakistan, Sparking Fears of War

**ISLAMABAD/NEW DELHI** – Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated dramatically Wednesday after India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a series of airstrikes targeting what it claimed were “terrorist infrastructure” in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The operation, lasting 25 minutes, followed a deadly massacre of tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir last month, which India blamed on Pakistan. Islamabad denied any involvement.

Pakistan’s military reported at least 26 civilian deaths and numerous injuries as a result of the Indian strikes, a claim India denies. Pakistan further asserted that it shot down five Indian Air Force jets and a drone in response, including what it claimed were three Rafale fighter jets – a claim India has not confirmed. The wreckage of an aircraft was found in Indian-administered Kashmir, though its origin remains unclear.

The Indian government, in a press conference featuring video footage purportedly showing the airstrikes, reiterated its accusations against Pakistan for supporting terrorism and stated that only “terrorist infrastructure” was targeted, with no civilian casualties on the Pakistani side. However, Pakistan’s military presented evidence, including images of what they described as damaged mosques, to back their claim of civilian deaths.

The escalation has sparked international concern, with China expressing regret and urging both nations to de-escalate. The United States has also stated it’s closely monitoring the situation, and other world powers have called for restraint.

The Indian government has ordered the evacuation of citizens from vulnerable areas in Indian-administered Kashmir as the situation remains extremely volatile. The heightened rhetoric and military actions have pushed the two nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of a full-scale conflict, raising fears of a devastating regional war. Commercial airlines are largely avoiding Pakistani airspace due to safety concerns.

Read More