New Delhi/Islamabad — Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated after India launched air strikes early Tuesday targeting nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The Indian government stated the action was in response to last month’s deadly attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir.
According to Indian officials, no Pakistani military installations were targeted, but strikes were aimed at sites allegedly linked to militant activity. In contrast, Pakistan’s military claims three locations were hit and condemned the attack as “unprovoked and blind aggression.”
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denounced the strikes as a “cowardly attack,” vowing a strong and decisive response. “This heinous act will not go unpunished,” he said in a statement, asserting that Pakistan’s armed forces and citizens stood united.
US, UN Call for Restraint
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed he had spoken with India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and is “closely monitoring the situation.” Echoing President Donald Trump’s remarks, Rubio urged for a quick de-escalation and emphasized continued engagement with both sides.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has called for “maximum military restraint.” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the rising hostilities, warning against further military confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
Airspace Closures and Flight Disruptions
Both Indian and Pakistani airspaces have seen widespread disruption. India has suspended flights to and from key northern cities including Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, and Leh. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet confirmed diversions and cancellations.
Pakistan also closed airspace over major hubs like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad until further notice. Global carriers including Air France, Lufthansa, Finnair, Emirates, and Turkish Cargo announced diversions away from Pakistani airspace.
Pakistan Claims to Shoot Down Indian Jets
Pakistan’s military spokesperson claimed that two Indian fighter jets and one drone were shot down during the confrontation. While Pakistan’s defense ministry echoed these claims, India has yet to issue a statement, and the reports remain unverified.
Ground Reports and Civilian Impact
Explosions were reported in Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where residents described scenes of chaos and injuries. “People are terrified and fleeing,” one local resident told reporters. There are also unconfirmed reports of casualties, including children.
In Indian-administered Kashmir, locals near the Line of Control also reported hearing explosions.
Background and Outlook
The latest conflict follows a deadly attack last month in Indian-administered Kashmir. While India blames Pakistan-backed groups, Islamabad denies involvement and has called for an independent investigation.
Kashmir remains a long-standing flashpoint between the two countries, both of which claim the region in full but govern only parts. The international community is now watching closely to see whether the situation will escalate further or return to a path of diplomacy.
This is a developing story. Stay with StarAvis for continued updates.
