Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 people on April 22, 2025, India launched "Operation Sindoor," a series of precision missile strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation, which took place early Wednesday morning, struck nine terror targets linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, and Hizbul Mujahideen. Indian officials described the action as "focused, measured, and non-escalatory," emphasizing that no civilian or military sites were targeted.
The strikes drew strong reactions from around the world. Top Indian ministers, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, lauded the operation, reiterating India's commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on terrorism. Jaishankar conveyed a firm message to the international community, asserting that the world must demonstrate "zero tolerance for terrorism". Home Minister Amit Shah stated that "Operation Sindoor" showcased the Modi government's stance against those who challenge India's borders.
Several nations have responded to the escalating tensions. The United States, the UAE, and the UN have urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and de-escalate the situation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed serious concern and called for maximum military restraint. The UAE government also released a statement urging both countries to de-escalate tensions and avoid further escalations. US President Donald Trump said he hoped the hostilities would end quickly. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with the national security advisors from both India and Pakistan, urging them to maintain open communication channels and avoid escalation.
In contrast, Israel has voiced its support for India's right to self-defense. China, a close ally of Pakistan, condemned the strikes and called for calm, urging both nations to prioritize peace and stability.
Pakistan has reacted to the strikes with threats and disinformation. Pakistani media outlets and officials have claimed that Indian forces targeted civilian areas, a claim refuted by Indian authorities who maintain that only terrorist camps were targeted. JeM chief Maulana Masood Azhar claimed that 10 members of his family and four of his aides were killed in the strikes.
The strikes have led to heightened security measures and disruptions. Several airports were shut down, and hundreds of flights were cancelled as tensions escalated. An urgent meeting was convened by Home Minister Amit Shah with the chief ministers, chief secretaries, and DGPs of states bordering Pakistan and Nepal.
"Operation Sindoor" has triggered diverse reactions globally. While some countries are advocating for dialogue and restraint, others are acknowledging India's right to defend itself against cross-border terrorism. The situation remains tense, and the international community is closely monitoring developments in the region.
