Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated dramatically following a terror attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, and the subsequent response by the Indian military. The situation has garnered international attention, with former U.S. President Donald Trump offering to mediate and calling for an end to the hostilities.
The Pahalgam Attack and Operation Sindoor
On April 22, 2025, a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam resulted in the loss of 26 lives, mainly non-Muslim tourists. The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, drew widespread condemnation and prompted a strong response from India. India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, a charge Pakistan denied.
In retaliation, the Indian military launched "Operation Sindoor" on May 7, targeting what it claimed were terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. India reported hitting nine sites, asserting that these were training camps and launchpads used by terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. Pakistan, however, claimed that the strikes hit civilian areas, including a mosque, resulting in casualties. Pakistan's military reported that 31 people were killed in the attacks. A missile strike reportedly hit a mosque in Bahawalpur, killing a child.
Escalation and Cross-Border Firing
Following Operation Sindoor, Pakistan authorized its armed forces to retaliate, calling the Indian strikes "acts of war". Pakistan claimed to have shot down multiple Indian military jets. Heavy cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in disputed Kashmir ensued, causing civilian casualties and displacement. Residents in Indian-administered Kashmir reported major explosions and blackouts in Jammu. Villages near the LoC were emptied as residents fled or sought shelter in bunkers. The Indian Army said that 13 civilians and one soldier had been killed in the exchanges. Pakistan's army also engaged in unprovoked firing across the LoC in areas opposite Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri and Akhnoor.
Trump's Offer to Mediate
Amidst the escalating tensions, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed concern and offered to help resolve the crisis. "I want to see it stop. And if I can do anything to help, I will be there," Trump said. The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning for Pakistan and urged U.S. citizens to leave conflict areas or shelter in place. The U.S. also called for immediate de-escalation and direct dialogue between India and Pakistan. However, New Delhi has historically rejected third-party mediation attempts.
International Concerns and Reactions
The escalating hostilities have raised concerns about the potential for a wider conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed "deep concern" over the rising tensions. World leaders and international bodies have urged both countries to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation. The British Parliament also debated the rising tensions, with members appealing for efforts to aid de-escalation in the region.
Impact and Aftermath
The recent events have had a significant impact on the region. Twenty airports across northern India were closed, disrupting travel and commercial activity. Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority briefly shut airports in Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. There are reports of displacement of families from villages near the LoC. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a longstanding agreement on water distribution, and Pakistan responded by suspending the Simla Agreement.
