New Delhi, May 9, 2025 — India launched retaliatory strikes on Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, as well as Lahore and Sialkot late Thursday, following Pakistan’s failed attempts to target multiple Indian cities with missiles and drones. The strikes came amid heightened hostilities, with Pakistan also violating the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting a swift and controlled response from Indian forces to ensure civilian safety.
Pakistan’s Attacks and India’s Response
On Thursday night, Pakistan attempted to strike military facilities in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur, and other key locations using drones and missiles. Indian air defense systems, including the advanced S-400, successfully intercepted threats targeting areas such as Satwari, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia in Jammu. Air raid sirens and explosions were reported in Akhnoor, Samba, Baramulla, and Kupwara as Indian forces maintained rigorous aerial surveillance along the border.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed that all threats were neutralized promptly, with no casualties or damage reported. “India is fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its people,” the ministry stated, emphasizing adherence to standard operating procedures.
This was the second such incident in less than 24 hours. Earlier on Thursday, Pakistan targeted military installations in 15 cities across northern and western India, including Srinagar, Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Bhuj. In response, Indian forces deployed kamikaze drones, destroying an air defense installation in Lahore and striking other air defense systems in Pakistan. The Indian counteroffensive was calibrated to match the scale and intensity of Pakistan’s attacks.
Ceasefire Violations and Blackouts
Pakistan’s ceasefire violations along the LoC on Friday morning further escalated tensions. Indian forces responded effectively, prioritizing civilian safety and maintaining control of the situation. To mitigate risks, authorities imposed blackouts in strategic border areas, including Srinagar, Jammu, and Rajouri in Jammu and Kashmir; Amritsar and Jalandhar in Punjab; and Bhuj in Gujarat. These measures were part of a broader effort to safeguard critical infrastructure and deter further aggression.
Context of Escalating Conflict
The current hostilities trace back to India’s Operation Sindoor, launched on Wednesday in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The operation targeted nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, neutralizing key operatives linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed. Pakistan condemned the strikes and vowed a “befitting reply,” leading to the series of drone and missile attacks on Indian territory.
The back-and-forth has heightened fears of a wider military conflict, with both nations on high alert. India’s robust defense measures, including the interception of Pakistani missiles and the downing of an F-16 fighter jet and an AWACS aircraft earlier this week, underscore its readiness to counter threats.
India’s Stance on Sovereignty
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the nation, reaffirming India’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty. “India will not let any constraint hinder the protection of its sovereignty and is ready for all necessary actions,” Singh stated. While emphasizing restraint and openness to dialogue, he warned that any attempt to exploit India’s approach would be met with decisive action. “India remains fully prepared to respond responsibly in the future as well,” he added.
A Region on Edge
The escalating tit-for-tat strikes have placed the region under significant strain, with civilian populations in border areas living in heightened anxiety. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging both nations to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic channels to prevent further escalation.
As India and Pakistan navigate this volatile period, the focus remains on maintaining security and stability while addressing the root causes of the conflict. The situation continues to evolve, with the potential for further developments in the coming days.
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