Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated dramatically, with reports emerging of naval operations commencing in the Arabian Sea following alleged attempts by Pakistan to attack India. This marks a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict, which has already seen a series of aggressive exchanges.
Sources indicate that the Indian Navy has initiated targeted operations against multiple targets in Pakistan. This action follows Pakistan's escalation of the situation, which included targeting civilian and military areas with drones, missiles, and intense artillery shelling. India's air defense systems successfully intercepted these attacks, preventing casualties.
In response to Pakistan's actions, the Indian Navy has reportedly launched missile strikes on key Pakistani naval bases, causing significant destruction and panic along Pakistan's coastline. Explosions have been reported in Karachi, a major port city and economic hub in Pakistan. This is the first time since 1971 that the Indian Navy has opened a front against Pakistan.
The Indian Navy's Western Fleet, based in Mumbai, has deployed a task force closer to Pakistani waters, likely within 300-400 nautical miles of Karachi. This deployment aims to monitor Pakistani naval movements and secure maritime routes in the Arabian Sea. Karachi is a critical strategic target, handling 60% of Pakistan's trade and hosting its naval headquarters. A naval blockade or strike could cripple Pakistan's economy and military operations.
Adding to the complexity, both India and Pakistan have issued notifications for simultaneous naval firing exercises across various zones in the Arabian Sea. India's exercises are scheduled from May 8 to May 13, while Pakistan's will be conducted from May 9 to May 12, resulting in a four-day overlap. This close proximity of naval exercises raises concerns about potential unintended confrontations or miscalculations.
Amid the escalating tensions, Indian naval assets armed with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles have reportedly moved closer to Karachi. This strategic positioning aims to counter potential Pakistani aggression. The BrahMos missile's capabilities are such that any naval action involving these vessels could result in destruction.
The current conflict was triggered by India's retaliatory airstrikes targeting terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the death of 26 civilians. India has named its operation "Operation Sindoor". While India initially stated that no Pakistani military infrastructure was targeted, the situation has since escalated with the recent naval operations and attacks on Karachi. Late on Thursday evening India launched a counterattack on the Pakistani city of Lahore.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions and has called for restraint and dialogue between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The United States has urged both countries to avoid further escalation.
