On May 6, 2025, India launched missile strikes on nine sites within Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir under “Operation Sindoor,” targeting what it claims to be terrorist infrastructure linked to the recent Pahalgam attack, which left 26 Indians dead.
In response, Pakistan claimed to have shot down two Indian jets and vowed a “befitting response” at its discretion. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the Indian strikes as an “act of war.”
The situation has significantly escalated tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors, prompting international concern. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed hope for a swift de-escalation, labeling the development as “a shame.” 
Multiple explosions caused power blackouts in Muzaffarabad, and Pakistan International Airlines grounded all flights. Both sides continue to exchange artillery fire along the Line of Control.
India’s defense ministry claimed the strikes targeted militant camps used for attacks on India, despite diplomatic efforts by the U.S. to de-escalate tensions. Pakistan confirmed missiles hit three locations, including Muzaffarabad, and condemned the strikes as a serious provocation.
The Indian military described the action as restrained and non-escalatory, emphasizing that Pakistani military facilities were deliberately avoided. The strikes resulted in at least three civilian deaths, including a child, and over a dozen injuries, according to Pakistani military sources.
Pakistan denies responsibility and accused India of sponsoring terrorism within its borders. Tensions are escalating, threatening the fragile 2021 cease-fire, as both nations have traded cross-border fire and enacted retaliatory diplomatic and economic sanctions, including Pakistan closing its airspace and India suspending a water-sharing treaty and expelling Pakistani nationals.
Observers warn that further escalation could provoke broader conflict, especially with China, Pakistan’s ally, in the regional equation.
The situation raises concerns given the nuclear capabilities of both nations.
Both sides have intensified diplomatic outreach to gain international support. On the ground, India’s military crackdown in Kashmir has led to mass detentions and destruction of suspected rebels’ homes, triggering anxiety in the region. Gunfire exchanges have occurred along the Line of Control, with both sides accusing each other of violations.
Military posturing has intensified, with missile test-firings by both nations. The situation recalls the 2019 near-conflict, prompting growing fears of another escalation between these long-time adversaries.
