Introduction:
In a decisive military response to the devastating April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 6, 2025. This operation targeted nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, aiming to dismantle terrorist infrastructures linked to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The strikes have significantly heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, drawing international concern over the potential for broader conflict. It may be remembered that yesterday we have published a breaking news about nation-wide civil defence mock drills scheduled on 7th May-2025.
The Catalyst: Pahalgam Terror Attack
The Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali tourist, was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a group associated with LeT. India's investigation revealed connections between the attackers and Pakistani-based terrorist organizations, prompting a call for immediate and decisive action. The Indian government emphasized that Operation Sindoor was a focused and measured response aimed solely at terrorist targets, avoiding Pakistani military installations to prevent unnecessary escalation.The Times of India
Execution of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor involved precision airstrikes on nine identified terrorist hideouts. Targets included areas in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot, and regions within Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The Indian Armed Forces released footage showcasing the strikes, highlighting their commitment to transparency and precision. Notably, JeM chief Masood Azhar reported the loss of ten family members and four aides during these strikes, underscoring the operation's impact on terrorist leadership.
Pakistan's Response and International Reactions
Pakistan condemned the strikes as an unprovoked act of aggression, reporting civilian casualties and claiming to have shot down several Indian jets. The Pakistani government declared a state of emergency in affected regions and vowed retaliation. Internationally, leaders from the United Nations, the United States, China, and Russia urged both nations to exercise restraint. The situation has disrupted regional stability, with concerns over a potential escalation reminiscent of past conflicts as per thetimes.com reports.
Masood Azhar Confirms Family Losses in Operation Sindoor:
According to a detailed report by NDTV, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar has admitted that 10 of his family members were killed in India's Operation Sindoor airstrikes. Among those killed were close aides and relatives, reportedly residing in one of the targeted hideouts in Bahawalpur, Punjab province of Pakistan. Azhar issued a statement through JeM-linked online forums, blaming the Pakistani government for failing to protect jihadist assets.
His admission, rare for a high-profile terror figure, signals the deep impact of the operation on the JeM leadership. Intelligence agencies believe that some of the deceased were involved in logistics and recruitment for cross-border terror activities. This revelation not only confirms India's successful targeting but also puts pressure on Islamabad, as it tries to manage both internal backlash and international scrutiny. Operation Sindoor has thus struck at the heart of JeM’s operational framework, shaking its core infrastructure.Domestic Support and Political Reactions
Within India, Operation Mindoro received widespread political support. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi expressed full backing for the armed forces, emphasizing national unity in the face of terrorism. Families of the Pahalgam victims voiced a sense of solace, acknowledging the operation as a step towards justice. The Indian government's approach aimed to balance a strong domestic message with a narrative of restraint on the international stage.
Potential for Escalation and Future Outlook
The strikes mark the most significant military engagement between India and Pakistan since the 1971 war. Analysts warn that the situation could spiral into a broader conflict if diplomatic channels are not actively pursued. Both nations face pressure to de-escalate tensions while addressing security concerns. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, advocating for dialogue and peaceful resolution.
Source Data:
The news article has been compiled based on research and based on the data published in timesofindia.indiatimes.com, aljazeera.com/news, and ndtv.com/india-news.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information available from reputable news sources as of May 7, 2025. The situation is fluid, and developments may occur beyond this date. Readers are encouraged to consult official government statements and trusted news outlets for the most current information.
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