Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated dramatically after an unprovoked attack initiated by Pakistan, resulting in a fierce aerial engagement near the Rajasthan border. Indian forces retaliated effectively, reportedly shooting down a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet.

The incident occurred amidst heightened cross-border skirmishes, which began with a militant attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, 2025, killing 25 Indian nationals and one Nepalese national. India accused Pakistan of supporting the attack, a charge vehemently denied by Islamabad, who called for a neutral investigation.

In response to the Pahalgam attack, India launched a series of missile strikes into Pakistan-controlled territory early Wednesday, May 7, in an operation codenamed "Sindoor". According to Pakistani officials, the strikes resulted in at least 31 casualties and numerous injuries. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the strikes as an "act of war" and vowed a "befitting reply".

Following India's "Operation Sindoor", Pakistan responded by claiming to have shot down several Indian aircraft. According to sources, a Pakistani F-16 was shot down by the Indian forces, although an official confirmation is awaited. The pilot of the F-16 fighter jet was reportedly captured by Indian security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Akhnoor. The Indian S-400 defense system, one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world, quickly detected the jet and shot it down.

India's Defense Ministry stated that the missile strikes targeted at least nine sites "where terrorist attacks against India have been planned". The ministry emphasized that the actions were "focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature," with no Pakistani military facilities targeted. However, Pakistan asserted that the strikes hit civilian areas, including mosques.

The situation remains tense, with reports of ongoing exchanges of fire along the Line of Control (LoC). India has accused Pakistan of using drones and missiles to target military installations and civilian areas in various cities, including those in Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan and Jammu & Kashmir. Indian authorities activated air defense systems, sirens, and enforced blackouts in response.

Amidst the escalating conflict, there are reports of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. Saudi Arabia and Iran have reportedly sent their foreign ministers to New Delhi and Islamabad in an attempt to mediate.