Recent events have brought renewed focus on the volatile relationship between India and Pakistan, with concerns extending to the security of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal and increased activity by Baloch insurgents. These developments follow India's "Operation Sindoor," a retaliatory strike after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Indian-occupied Jammu & Kashmir, which has further strained the already tense relations between the two countries.
Operation Sindoor and Nuclear Concerns
In response to the April 22nd terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the death of 27 civilians, India launched "Operation Sindoor" on May 7th, targeting alleged terrorist bases within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These strikes, reportedly involving BrahMos missiles, caused significant damage to Pakistan's military infrastructure, with some reports claiming substantial destruction of the Pakistan Air Force's supporting infrastructure.
The proximity of these strikes to Kirana Hills, a site long linked to Pakistan's nuclear program, ignited speculation about potential damage to nuclear facilities and the possibility of radioactive leaks. Kirana Hills has been associated with Pakistan's nuclear ambitions since the 1980s and was reportedly used for subcritical nuclear tests between 1983 and 1990.
Although the Indian military has denied targeting Kirana Hills, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated that there was no radiation leak or release from any nuclear facility in Pakistan, concerns remain. Some analysts suggest that the strikes near Kirana Hills served as a strategic message. Adding to the unease, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for increased IAEA oversight of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, labeling Pakistan a "rogue nation with nukes".
Military historian Tom Cooper stated that the recent conflict ended after India hit two entrances to a suspected Pakistani nuclear facility. He added that this action forced Islamabad to accept a ceasefire.
Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) Attacks
Amidst the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has intensified its attacks against Pakistani forces in Balochistan. The BLA, a separatist group seeking independence for the Baloch people, has claimed responsibility for numerous coordinated attacks targeting military and intelligence sites, police stations, and infrastructure.
In May 2025, the BLA claimed responsibility for 71 coordinated attacks at over 51 locations across Balochistan as part of "Operation Herof". More recently, the group claimed responsibility for seven coordinated attacks as part of "Operation Herof 2.0", with a total of 78 operations conducted at 58 locations. The BLA has also claimed to have killed Pakistani intelligence agents.
The BLA has called on India and the international community to take action against Pakistan, which they describe as a "breeding ground" for terrorists. The group has also rejected claims of being a proxy for any state, asserting its independence in its struggle for Balochistan's freedom.
Diplomatic Efforts and Regional Implications
Following "Operation Sindoor," India is reportedly planning a diplomatic offensive to brief foreign nations on the recent conflict and its stance on the issue. A delegation of MPs from all parties is expected to embark on an international outreach program after May 22nd.
The recent events have further complicated the already complex regional dynamics, with the unresolved Kashmir dispute remaining a central issue. The China-Pakistan partnership also adds to India's strategic concerns, particularly the possibility of a two-front war. Despite efforts to de-escalate tensions along the India-China border, both nations continue to compete for regional influence.
