Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated recently, reaching levels not seen since the Kargil War. The situation involves ceasefire violations, airspace intrusions, and missile attacks.
Pakistan initiated a major air attack on India's western frontier, moving troops into forward positions. This involved firing a barrage of weapons at Indian military and civilian sites after midnight, utilizing long-range projectiles, loitering munitions, aircraft, jets, and unmanned combat vehicles. Pakistan attempted to infiltrate at least 26 different locations, but most of these attempts were neutralized.
In response to Pakistan's actions, India launched precision strikes targeting Pakistani radar systems and technical bases. These strikes were a direct response to Pakistan's airspace intrusions at multiple locations along the border. India's actions also came in the wake of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people.
Adding to the escalation, Pakistan launched an advanced Fatah-1 missile at India, which entered Indian airspace. India's air defense systems intercepted and shot down the missile mid-air, with the debris falling in Sirsa, Haryana, near the border with Punjab. No casualties or damages were reported.
Pakistan also launched drones at residential areas in Rajouri (Jammu and Kashmir) and Amritsar (Punjab). These drones, carrying explosives, were intended to target civilian areas, but Indian forces successfully shot them down.
India has confirmed agreeing to a ceasefire after Pakistan reached out.
Palki Sharma has analyzed these events, decoding Pakistan's "Operation Bunyan al-Marsoos". Sharma highlighted Pakistan's pattern of provocation, starting with ceasefire violations, then drone infiltrations, and finally, high-speed missiles. She noted the silence from the West regarding Pakistan's actions, emphasizing that India must fight this battle alone. Sharma also drew a contrast between Pakistan's reckless targeting of civilian areas and India's prioritization of civilian safety in its response.
