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In a significant escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 6, 2025, targeting nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This operation was a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including 25 Indians and one Nepali national. The Indian government has attributed the attack to Pakistan-based terrorist organizations, leading to the execution of this military operation.
The Pahalgam Attack
The Pahalgam attack occurred when militants opened fire on a group of tourists in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, attributed to the Resistance Front, a proxy group of Lashkar-e-Taiba, led to the tragic loss of 27 lives. India has accused Pakistan of providing support to these terrorist groups, prompting the retaliatory strikes under Operation Sindoor.
Details of Operation Sindoor
At approximately 1:44 AM IST on May 6, Indian forces launched a series of precision missile strikes targeting nine sites associated with terrorist activities. The operation lasted 23 minutes and involved the use of advanced weaponry, including SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, deployed from Rafale jets. The targeted locations included:
- Muridke, Punjab – Lashkar-e-Taiba training facility
- Bahawalpur, Punjab – Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters
- Tehra Kalan, Sialkot – Hizbul Mujahideen operational base
- Bhimber, PoJK – Jaish-e-Mohammed logistics hub
- Kotli, PoJK – Lashkar-e-Taiba recruitment center
- Muzaffarabad, PoJK – Hizbul Mujahideen coordination center
- Sialkot, Punjab – Lashkar-e-Taiba training camp
- Ahmedpur East, Bahawalpur – Jaish-e-Mohammed arms depot
- Sialkot, Punjab – Hizbul Mujahideen training facility
The Ministry of Defence emphasized that the strikes were “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” deliberately avoiding Pakistani military installations to prevent further escalation.
Casualties and Impact
According to official reports, the operation resulted in the elimination of over 70 terrorists and injured more than 60 others, significantly crippling the operational capabilities of the targeted groups. Importantly, Indian authorities reported no civilian casualties, underscoring the precision and planning involved in the strikes.
In retaliation, Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian fighter jets and reported the deaths of 26 civilians, including a child, and injuries to 46 others. Pakistan also initiated shelling across the Line of Control, resulting in civilian casualties and infrastructural damage on both sides.
International Reactions
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The United Nations, the United States, and China have called for maximum restraint and dialogue to prevent further deterioration of regional stability. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged both nations to de-escalate and engage in diplomatic discussions to resolve the conflict peacefully.
Strategic Significance
“Operation Sindoor” represents a significant shift in India’s counter-terrorism strategy, showcasing a willingness to conduct preemptive strikes against threats beyond its borders. The operation also serves as a message to terrorist organizations and their sponsors about India’s resolve to protect its citizens and sovereignty.
Conclusion
As tensions between India & Pakistan continue to rise following the Pahalgam attack, Operation Sindoor stands as a testament to India’s commitment to combating terrorism. While the situation remains volatile, the precision and restraint demonstrated during the operation highlight India’s strategic approach to national security.
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