India Strikes Terror Camps in Retaliatory Mission, Tensions Surge with Pakistan

India announced on Wednesday that it had carried out targeted strikes on what it described as terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. The Ministry of Defence clarified that these operations were carefully calibrated and deliberately non-escalatory, avoiding any Pakistani military installations.

The strikes, conducted under the banner of “Operation Sindoor,” came after a deadly militant assault in Pahalgam last month that claimed 26 lives. India’s defence authorities emphasized their commitment to holding the attackers accountable while maintaining restraint in their choice of targets and approach.

A total of nine locations were hit in this military operation, which is part of India’s broader response to persistent cross-border militancy. Indian officials reiterated that only terror-related sites were attacked, excluding any civilian, economic, or military assets in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s leadership reacted strongly, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denouncing the move as an act of war. He warned of a firm response, asserting that Pakistan had every right to defend itself and would take appropriate retaliatory measures.

Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed Indian missiles had struck multiple sites, including areas in eastern Punjab and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. He added that Pakistan’s counter-strike was already underway and would be evident soon.

According to reports from Pakistani state media, three Indian Air Force jets were shot down during the exchange. Meanwhile, India’s embassy in Washington stated that their mission was precise and avoided any Pakistani civilian or military targets.

The situation has disrupted aviation in the region, with Qatar Airways and other international carriers suspending or rerouting flights due to closed airspace. Global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, have called for calm and emphasized that military solutions will only escalate tensions.