In a decisive military response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched “Operation Sindoor” on May 6, 2025, targeting nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The operation aimed to dismantle facilities believed to be responsible for orchestrating attacks against India, including the brutal assault in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.
Precision Strikes with Strategic Restraint
According to India’s Ministry of Defence, the strikes were “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” deliberately avoiding Pakistani military installations. This approach underscores India’s intent to target only terrorist elements without provoking broader military confrontation .
The operation comes in the wake of the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, where gunmen, disguised in army fatigues, opened fire on tourists in the Baisaran meadow, resulting in 26 deaths, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen . The militant group “Kashmir Resistance,” believed to be linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility, citing opposition to demographic changes in the region .
International Reactions and Regional Tensions
Pakistan condemned the strikes, reporting missile impacts in areas including Muzaffarabad and Bahawalpur, and vowed retaliation at a time of its choosing . The incident has escalated tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors, raising concerns over potential further conflict.
In response to the heightened alert, India has initiated nationwide civil defense drills, the first since 1971, to prepare for possible retaliatory actions .
A Message of Resolve
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cutting short his international visit, emphasized India’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable. “Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice… they will not be spared,” he stated .
As the region watches closely, India’s Operation Sindoor signals a firm stance against terrorism, aiming to deter future attacks while navigating the delicate balance of regional stability.