Sat May 10 08:00:00 UTC 2025: ## India and Pakistan Exchange Military Strikes, Escalating Kashmir Conflict

**New Delhi/Islamabad** – A dangerous escalation in the longstanding conflict between India and Pakistan unfolded Saturday, with both nuclear-armed nations launching retaliatory military operations. The renewed fighting follows weeks of heightened tension sparked by a massacre of tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir last month.

Early Saturday, Pakistan announced a military operation in response to what it claimed were overnight Indian missile strikes on its military bases. India confirmed at least one civilian death, Raj Kumar Thappa, a government official in Rajouri, India-administered Kashmir, killed in the shelling. India’s military countered that it had “effectively countered and responded” to Pakistan’s operation, alleging that Pakistan targeted civilian areas and military infrastructure, including schools and hospitals. Pakistan has not yet responded to these allegations.

The escalating conflict has prompted international concern. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio offered to mediate, speaking separately with both Indian and Pakistani officials. He urged both sides to de-escalate and re-establish communication to avoid miscalculation. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that Islamabad would cease its operations if India did the same. China also expressed deep concern and called for restraint.

The immediate trigger for the renewed violence was the April 22nd massacre of tourists in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir. While Kashmir Resistance initially claimed responsibility, Pakistan denies involvement, and India has not publicly assigned blame. However, India cited the attack as justification for its “Operation Sindoor,” launched Wednesday against alleged terrorist infrastructure in both Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

This latest exchange marks the most extensive military conflict between India and Pakistan in decades, raising fears of a wider war. The IMF’s recent approval of a $1 billion loan disbursement to Pakistan adds another layer of complexity to the situation, with India expressing concerns about potential misuse of funds for cross-border terrorism. Analysts warn of the alarming escalation and the lack of immediate pathways to de-escalation. The situation remains highly volatile.

Read More