Introduction
On May 6, 2025, the fragile peace between India and Pakistan shattered as India launched missile strikes on Pakistani territory. This aggressive move, following the tragic Pahalgam attack on April 22, has plunged the two nuclear-armed neighbors into one of their most severe confrontations in recent history. The international community watches with bated breath as the situation unfolds.
The Pahalgam Attack: A Catalyst for Conflict
On April 22, 2025, gunmen in army fatigues attacked tourists in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Kashmir, killing 26 people and injuring 17. The attack, mostly targeting Indian Hindu men, is considered one of the worst civilian massacres in recent years and has reignited tensions between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan.
India swiftly blamed Pakistan for the attack, citing evidence of Pakistani nationals among the attackers. Pakistan denied involvement but has conducted two missile tests in recent days and expressed readiness to defend itself. AFCENT+11The News International+11Dawn+11
India’s Military Response: Operation Sindoor
In retaliation, India initiated “Operation Sindoor,” targeting nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The Indian government claimed these strikes aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructures linked to the Pahalgam attack. However, Pakistan reported civilian casualties, including the death of a child, and over 30 injuries.
The Indian military emphasized that no Pakistani military installations were targeted, asserting the operation was measured and non-escalatory.
Pakistan’s Retaliation: Airspace Closure and Military Action
In a swift and decisive response to India’s missile attack, Pakistan’s military destroyed the enemy’s brigade headquarters and shot down its two aircrafts. ARY NEWS
Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, confirmed the Indian missile strike that hit Pakistani territory.
Pakistan has closed its airspace and canceled all flights. According to aviation sources, a regular NOTAM was also issued, closing the airspace for 48 hours. Flight operations from Islamabad International Airport have been suspended until further notice, while flight operations at Lahore Airport have also been suspended. Latest news & breaking headlines
Diplomatic Fallout and International Reactions
The missile strikes and subsequent military actions have led to a severe diplomatic fallout. Both countries have expelled each other’s diplomats, halted flights across each other’s airspace, and ordered citizens to return home.
The UN Security Council has called on India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions and engage in dialogue following the deadly April 22 attack. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both nations to exercise maximum restraint and avoid confrontation that could spiral out of control.
Economic and Humanitarian Implications
The escalating conflict poses significant economic risks. Moody’s has warned of potential setbacks to both nations’ economies, particularly Pakistan’s post-crisis recovery and India’s fiscal consolidation.
The closure of airspace and suspension of trade have disrupted economic activities, affecting industries and livelihoods on both sides. The humanitarian situation is also deteriorating, with civilians caught in the crossfire and facing displacement.
Conclusion
The recent events mark a dangerous escalation in India-Pakistan relations. The international community must intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent further deterioration and encourage both nations to return to the negotiating table. Peace and stability in the region hinge on the willingness of both countries to engage in constructive dialogue and resolve their differences through peaceful means.
