Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated dramatically on May 7, 2025, following India’s launch of “Operation Sindoor,” a series of airstrikes targeting civilians in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir (AJK).
The operation was in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian-Occupied Kashmir (IOK), which claimed 27 lives, including 25 Hindu tourists, a Christian tourist, and a local Muslim.
India-Pakistan Attack on 7 May 2025
Operation Sindoor: India’s Offensive
In the early hours of May 7, the Indian Air Force executed “Operation Sindoor,” deploying Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs. The operation targeted nine sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, Tehra Kalan, Sialkot, Bhimber, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad.
According to Guardian, India asserted that these locations housed terrorist camps and infrastructure linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
The Indian government stated that the strikes were precise and aimed at minimizing civilian casualties. However, Pakistani authorities reported that the attacks resulted in 26 deaths, including women and children, and injured 46 others.
Pakistan’s Response
In retaliation, Pakistan conducted missile strikes on Indian-administered Kashmir. The Pakistani military claimed to have shot down five Indian aircraft, including three Rafale jets, a Sukhoi Su-30, and a MiG-29, as well as an Indian IAI Heron drone.
Additionally, Pakistan reported destroying an Indian brigade headquarters and multiple checkposts. India denied these claims, stating that no aircraft were lost.
The Pakistani strikes reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least eight Indian civilians and injured 47 others.
Civilian Impact
The escalation has had a profound impact on civilians in the affected regions. In Indian-administered Kashmir, areas such as Kupwara, Poonch, and Rajouri experienced mortar fire, leading to multiple civilian casualties and prompting mass evacuations.
In Azad & Jammu Kashmir, regions including Neelum Valley, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad were targeted, resulting in civilian deaths, including children, and significant destruction. A mosque in Muzaffarabad was struck, drawing public outrage.
International Reactions
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
US President Trump reacted to India-Pakistan escalation and said “he had just been informed about the development and expressed hope that the escalation would end soon”. Calling the situation “a shame,” he urged for a quick de-escalation.
Courtesy: Dawn News English
The UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres concerned about Indian military attacks in Pakistan and he urges restraint. Similarly, other countries such as the United States, China, Russia, and France have urged both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Airspace restrictions have been implemented, and international airlines have begun rerouting flights to avoid the conflict zones. Travel advisories have been issued amid fears of further military engagement.
Timeline of Key Events on India-Pakistan Attack
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April 22, 2025: A terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, kills 27 people, including 25 Hindu tourists.
- May 6-7, 2025: India launches “Operation Sindoor,” conducting airstrikes on nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
- May 7, 2025: Pakistan retaliates with missile strikes on Indian-administered Kashmir, claiming to have shot down five Indian aircraft and destroyed military installations.
- May 7, 2025: Reports emerge of civilian casualties and infrastructure damage on both sides of the Line of Control.
Wrapping Up
The events of May 7, 2025, mark a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan over the disputed Kashmir region.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging both nations to de-escalate tensions and pursue diplomatic solutions to prevent further loss of life and regional instability.
Read Also:
- India-Pakistan 2025 Conflict: How Prepared Are Both Nations for a Full-Scale War?
- Cyber Warfare: The New Front in India-Pakistan Conflict
- Could Water Wars Be Next? India-Pakistan Tensions Over Indus River Dams
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