Thu May 08 12:30:00 UTC 2025: ## India’s Missile Strikes on Pakistan Questioned as Escalation Risk Grows
**New Delhi, India** – India launched unprecedented missile strikes into Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir on May 7th, claiming the action was necessary to deter and preempt further attacks on its territory. The strikes, targeting alleged training camps of groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad, followed a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. India cited a long history of cross-border terrorism as justification.
However, analysts question the effectiveness of the strikes, suggesting they are primarily aimed at domestic political consumption rather than achieving strategic military goals. Ajai Sahni of the South Asia Terrorism Portal stated that the strikes hold “no deterrent value,” arguing that both India and Pakistan will claim victory for their respective audiences.
The Indian government highlighted the precision of the strikes, targeting specific locations linked to past attacks, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks. At least 31 civilians, including children, were killed in Pakistan, a fact India denies. Pakistan has retaliated with drone attacks, raising fears of further escalation.
Military experts like Ajai Shukla express concern about the potential consequences, particularly if reports of downed Indian fighter jets are confirmed. He argues that such losses could undermine India’s future willingness to conduct similar strikes. The lack of clear escalation thresholds following the strikes is also a major concern, experts say.
The ongoing tension between the nuclear-armed neighbors underscores a long history of conflict and unresolved issues, particularly regarding Kashmir. Experts agree that the recent actions, regardless of claimed victories, are unlikely to fundamentally alter the long-term dynamics of the conflict, increasing the risk of further escalation and renewed tensions.
First Piper 