Thu May 08 16:50:00 UTC 2025: ## India Launches Retaliatory Strikes After Pakistan Attacks; Schools Closed, Airports on High Alert

**Chandigarh, India –** India has launched a series of retaliatory strikes against Pakistan following a wave of cross-border attacks, including drone and missile strikes targeting several Indian cities. The escalating conflict has prompted widespread school closures, airport lockdowns, and blackouts in border regions.

According to multiple government sources, India’s response, dubbed “Operation Sindoor,” involved air strikes targeting 9 terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), resulting in the reported deaths of over 100 terrorists. India also claims to have shot down multiple Pakistani fighter jets, including F-16s and JF-17s, as well as an AWACS aircraft. Indian officials maintain that only terrorist targets were hit, denying any civilian casualties. Pakistan, however, alleges civilian deaths and accuses India of targeting civilian infrastructure.

The attacks led to heightened security measures across India. Schools in Punjab will remain closed for three days, while schools in Chandigarh are closed for two. Major airports, including Srinagar, are on high alert with air defense systems activated. Several cities, including Chandigarh, Amritsar, and parts of Gujarat and Punjab, experienced blackouts due to security concerns. A special Vande Bharat Express train was dispatched to bring Indian Premier League (IPL) players from Dharamshala to Delhi safely after the match was suspended due to security concerns.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed anti-drone weaponry, including L-70, ZSU-23, and Shilka systems, along the border to counter further drone attacks. The S-400 system has also been activated. Several drones attempting attacks were successfully intercepted and destroyed across various locations, including near Jammu University and Pathankot Air Force Station.

India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, appealed to the international community to recognize Pakistan’s policy of deception and terrorism, highlighting Pakistan’s obstruction in UNSC resolutions regarding terrorist groups. He categorically denied Pakistan’s claims of civilian casualties.

The escalating tensions have prompted several international airlines to divert or cancel flights. The US, through Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urged both countries for de-escalation and direct dialogue. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh praised the precision and effectiveness of the Indian armed forces’ response, emphasizing the government’s focus on both quality and quantity in defense capabilities.

The situation remains highly volatile, with heavy shelling reported in several sectors along the Line of Control (LoC), including Uri and Tangdhar. While India asserts its actions were targeted solely at terrorist infrastructure, the conflict continues, raising significant concerns about regional stability.

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