NuzTube INDIA
New Delhi/Islamabad – In a bold military move early Wednesday, India launched precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, in response to the April 22 terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 civilians.
The Indian military confirmed targeting nine non-military sites identified as operational bases for planning cross-border attacks. The operation, described as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” marks the most serious military exchange between the nuclear-armed neighbors since 2019.
However, Pakistan condemned the strikes, reporting eight civilian deaths — including a child and two teenagers — and 35 injuries. Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif accused India of targeting civilians and vowed a strong response, calling the act “shameless.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif labeled it an “act of war” and declared that “a befitting reply is underway.”
Unverified reports from Pakistani officials claim that up to five Indian fighter jets, including Rafales, were downed in retaliation — a claim not confirmed by India.
Strikes were reported in Bahawalpur, Sialkot, Muridke, Ahmedpur East, and parts of Pakistani-administered Kashmir including Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Kotli. Civilians in Bahawalpur described blasts lighting up the night sky, with hospitals scrambling to respond to casualties.
Experts, including Yale’s Sushant Singh, stated that this marks a significant escalation: “This isn’t just Kashmir — it’s the Pakistani heartland.” If Pakistan retaliates directly in Indian territory, Singh warned, “we’re entering uncharted and dangerous territory.”
The April 22 attack was the deadliest since Mumbai 2008, and India blamed groups operating from Pakistan, prompting swift military action. This echoes the 2019 Balakot strikes following the Pulwama attack, but the scale and scope now appear larger.
India’s national security adviser Ajit Doval briefed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, confirming only terror targets were hit, not military or civilian infrastructure. U.S., U.K., Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Russia were also informed.
Global reactions are pouring in. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both sides to exercise maximum restraint. China reaffirmed its backing of Pakistan, calling their partnership “ironclad.”
U.S. President Donald Trump, commenting from the Oval Office, said, “It’s a shame. We hope it ends quickly.”
Meanwhile, Pakistani forces have begun shelling across the Line of Control, to which India claims it is responding in a calibrated manner.
With both countries nuclear-armed, global leaders fear miscalculation could spark a larger conflict, and are urging diplomacy to prevent further escalation.
