Operation Sindoor: A Deepening Crisis in the India-Pakistan Conflict

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated dramatically on May 7, 2025, following India's launch of "Operation Sindoor," a series of missile strikes targeting nine locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab. The operation, executed by Indian Rafale jets using SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, aimed at what India described as "terrorist infrastructure" linked to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. However, Pakistan reported significant civilian casualties, including the deaths of 31 individuals and injuries to over 40 others. The strikes also led to the destruction of mosques and educational facilities, further intensifying the crisis.

In retaliation, Pakistan claimed to have downed five Indian fighter jets and engaged in artillery exchanges along the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in additional casualties on both sides. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the Indian strikes as "cowardly acts of war" and vowed consequences, while Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that Pakistan is prepared for war but wishes to avoid escalation.

The origins of this conflict trace back to an April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians, including 25 Indian tourists and one Nepalese national. India alleges Pakistani support for the attack, a claim Pakistan denies. In the aftermath, both nations canceled key treaties—India withdrew from a joint water management accord, and Pakistan suspended the Simla Agreement—marking the most serious breakdown in their relations since the 1971 war.

The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence. Global leaders, including those from the U.S., UK, China, and Turkey, have called for restraint and diplomatic resolution amid fears of nuclear escalation. The clashes occur amid Pakistan's fragile economic recovery, threatening further instability. 

Drone warfare has become a significant component of the conflict. Pakistani authorities reported shooting down 12 Indian drones, while India claimed that Pakistan was targeting military installations in Indian-administered Kashmir and Punjab with missile and drone strikes, which Pakistan has denied.

The situation remains volatile, with both nations maintaining hardened postures. Despite widespread international concern, the path to de-escalation remains uncertain as both nuclear-armed nations continue to exchange hostilities.