Sun May 11 05:50:00 UTC 2025: ## India Launches Devastating Air Strikes on Pakistan, US Brokers Ceasefire

**New Delhi/Islamabad –** In a dramatic escalation of tensions, India launched a massive retaliatory air strike against ten Pakistani airbases on Friday night, following a Pakistani ballistic missile launch toward Sirsa, India. The unprecedented scale of the Indian operation, described by sources as exceeding even Operation Sindoor in May, prompted urgent intervention by the United States, which brokered a ceasefire between the two nuclear-armed rivals.

The Indian strikes, utilizing BrahMos, HAMMER, and SCALP missiles launched from Rafale fighter jets, targeted key airbases including Nur Khan (near Rawalpindi), Rafiqui, Murid, Sukkur, Sialkot, Sargodha, Skardu, Bholari, Jacobabad, and Pasrur. The strikes also neutralized the Chunian radar installation. All Indian missiles reportedly hit their targets, severely crippling Pakistan’s air force capabilities and command and control structures.

The attack on Nur Khan airbase, a key transport hub near Pakistan’s strategic plans division responsible for its nuclear arsenal, particularly alarmed the United States. The destruction of Rafiqui and Sargodha airbases, vital for fighter operations and command training respectively, further weakened Pakistan’s military response capabilities. Strikes on Skardu and Sukkur disrupted northern and southern air corridors, significantly impacting Pakistan’s operational range.

Following the strikes, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio made an unprecedented call to Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, urging de-escalation. Reports suggest the US perceived a lack of responsiveness from the Pakistani political leadership, leading to direct engagement with the army chief. The US also engaged with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing concerns about the potential for nuclear escalation. President Trump subsequently welcomed the ceasefire, highlighting the averted risk of widespread death and destruction.

India’s actions followed its May 7th Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist launchpads deep within Pakistani territory. India has made it clear that any future terrorist attacks will be met with similarly forceful responses. The country has also suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, adding diplomatic pressure on Pakistan.

While a ceasefire is in place, India has reiterated its commitment to defending its people and maintaining a heightened state of alert until Pakistan demonstrates a commitment to responsible behavior. The events underscore the volatile situation in the region and the crucial role the US played in preventing further escalation.

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