Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following a series of drone attacks initiated by Pakistan, targeting nearly 20 cities across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. These attacks, occurring over the past two days, have prompted a strong response from India, including retaliatory strikes and heightened security measures across several states.
The recent surge in hostilities began with Pakistan launching a series of drone attacks aimed at both military and civilian targets. Indian defense systems successfully intercepted several drones, thwarting attempted strikes on key locations such as the Awantipora air base. However, multiple drones were reported over various cities, including Jammu, Samba, Rajouri, Pathankot, Amritsar, Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Pokhran. An armed drone reportedly targeted a civilian area in Ferozepur, Punjab, resulting in injuries to members of a family who were provided medical assistance.
In response to these attacks, India has taken decisive action, with the Ministry of External Affairs confirming that Indian forces responded "proportionately, adequately, and responsibly". This included launching armed drones at Pakistani defense sites and destroying an air defense radar. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army stated that Pakistan deployed 300-400 drones across 36 locations during the night of May 8-9, and preliminary investigations suggest that Turkish-made SONGAR drones were used in these attacks.
The escalating tensions have led to widespread security measures and disruptions across northern India. Blackouts and air raid sirens have been reported in Pathankot and Jammu for the second consecutive night. In Amritsar, where at least 15 drones were detected in five locations, a red alert was issued. Authorities in Amritsar have advised civilians to remain indoors amid the security threat. A drone was also noticed flying over the Srinagar airport, prompting a blackout to neutralize the attack, and the drone was subsequently shot down by the military.
The Indian Army has stated that the situation is under "close and constant watch," assuring citizens that there is no need for panic while emphasizing the importance of heightened vigilance and precaution, especially in border areas. The army has advised residents to remain indoors, limit unnecessary movement, and strictly follow safety instructions issued by local authorities.
The government has reported that drones, including armed ones, were sighted at 26 locations in India, stretching from Baramulla in the north to Bhuj in the south, along the International Border and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. These locations include Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozpur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Lalgarh Jatta, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, Kuarbet, and Lakhi Nala.
The tensions have also impacted air travel, with 32 airports being closed for civilian flight operations until May 15. Several airlines have canceled flights to and from Delhi airport, and security has been tightened at airports nationwide.
These recent events mark a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The use of drones to target both military and civilian areas has added a new dimension to the conflict, prompting strong responses and heightened security measures on both sides. The situation remains tense, with both countries closely monitoring developments and taking steps to protect their respective territories and citizens.
