The recent tensions between India and Pakistan have been a focal point of international attention, particularly with claims of external mediation and revelations of military actions. Here's a breakdown of the key events and perspectives:
Operation Sindoor: India's Response to Pahalgam Attack
Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives on April 22, 2025, India launched "Operation Sindoor" on May 7, 2025. This operation involved precision strikes on nine terrorist infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The targeted sites reportedly belonged to key terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. India has described the strikes as a "measured" and "non-escalatory" response aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure and preventing future cross-border attacks. The Indian Army also released footage detailing Operation Sindoor, emphasizing that it was a "lesson" for Pakistan.
During the operation, Indian forces used AI for optimal strikes and to track and shoot down projectiles fired by Pakistan. According to the Indian Army, Pakistan attempted to attack the Golden Temple in Amritsar with missiles and drones, but these were intercepted and shot down.
Pakistan's Response and Ceasefire
Pakistan responded to India's strikes with heavy artillery shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in civilian casualties. Pakistan has denied involvement in the Pahalgam attack and has called for a neutral probe.
Eventually, a ceasefire was agreed upon on May 10, 2025, bringing a halt to the intense escalation. However, tensions remain, and India's Ambassador to Israel, JP Singh, has stated that "Operation Sindoor is paused, it's not yet over". He also demanded that Pakistan hand over key terrorists, including Hafiz Saeed, Sajid Mir, and Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi.
Trump's Mediation Claims and India's Rebuttal
Adding a layer of complexity to the situation were claims made by former US President Donald Trump that the United States had brokered the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Trump repeatedly took credit for his administration's role in the truce.
However, India has firmly denied these claims. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that the United States had no role in mediating the ceasefire and that the decision to cease military action was made bilaterally. Misri clarified that while New Delhi maintains routine talks with the US, there was no mediation involved in this particular situation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also refuted Trump's claims that he helped broker the ceasefire in exchange for trade concessions.
International Perspectives and Concerns
Several countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran, urged both India and Pakistan to halt hostilities. The US State Department has expressed support for direct talks between India and Pakistan.
India's Diplomatic Efforts
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, India is undertaking a diplomatic outreach effort to present its case on Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism. A delegation of parliamentarians, including opposition leaders, is being sent to various countries to counter Pakistan's narrative.
