The recent conflict between India and Pakistan in May 2025, triggered by a deadly militant attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, marks a significant, albeit brief, escalation in the long-standing tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Lasting only four days, from May 7 to May 10, it is arguably the shortest armed conflict between the two nations to date. This recent confrontation, however, is just one instance in a series of wars, conflicts, and military standoffs that have characterized India-Pakistan relations since their independence in 1947.
Background to the Conflict
The conflict stems from the unresolved issues arising from the Partition of British India in 1947, which created a Muslim-majority Pakistan and a Hindu-majority India. The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, with its majority Muslim population and Hindu ruler, became a major point of contention, as it was given the option to accede to either country or remain independent. The Maharaja's initial decision to remain independent, followed by his accession to India in exchange for military assistance against invading Pakistani tribesmen, ignited the first Indo-Pakistani War in 1947-48.
Since then, the Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism have remained the primary causes of conflict between the two states. The recent escalation was triggered by a militant attack on April 22, 2025, near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the death of 26 civilians, mostly tourists. India accused Pakistan of supporting the perpetrators of the attack, a charge Pakistan denied.
The 2025 Conflict: Operation Sindoor
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India launched "Operation Sindoor" on May 7, 2025, targeting nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. India claimed that these sites were used for planning attacks. The Indian Air Force reportedly carried out the strikes using Rafale aircraft, SCALP missiles, and AASM Hammer glide bombs. Pakistan retaliated, and both sides accused each other of violating the ceasefire agreement even after a ceasefire was agreed upon on May 10.
A History of Conflicts
While the May 2025 conflict stands out for its brevity, it is essential to understand it within the broader context of Indo-Pakistani military engagements:
Other Conflicts and Standoffs:
Besides these major wars, India and Pakistan have been involved in several other conflicts and military standoffs, including the Rann of Kutch conflict in 1965, the Siachen conflict (1984-2003), the 2001-2002 India-Pakistan standoff, and the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
The Significance of the 2025 Conflict
The four-day conflict in May 2025 underscores the volatile nature of India-Pakistan relations and the persistent risk of escalation. Despite its short duration, the conflict led to heightened tensions, exchange of fire across the Line of Control, and downgrading of diplomatic ties. The situation raised concerns about a broader military conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations. Although a ceasefire was eventually agreed upon, the underlying issues remain unresolved, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and de-escalation measures to prevent future conflicts.
