Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently made strong statements regarding India's response to cross-border terrorism, particularly in the context of "Operation Sindoor," launched earlier this month. Modi asserted that Pakistan's airbases are "in ICU" following India's strikes, highlighting the severe damage inflicted on Pakistani infrastructure during the operation.
Operation Sindoor was initiated as a direct response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, India, on April 22, 2025, where 26 tourists were killed. India attributed the attack to The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-backed terrorist organization. Following the attack, India waited for 15 days, hoping Pakistan would take action against the terrorist groups operating within its borders. However, when no action was taken, PM Modi gave the Indian armed forces a free hand to respond.
The operation, executed on the night of May 7-8, 2025, involved precision strikes targeting terrorist training camps at nine different locations within Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoJK). India emphasized that the strikes were non-escalatory and specifically targeted terrorist infrastructure, avoiding military targets to minimize the risk of further conflict. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated that Operation Sindoor was an "ongoing operation," and that the strikes had neutralized over 100 terrorists, including key leaders of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
Pakistan retaliated on May 8, launching coordinated drone and missile strikes targeting Indian military installations across northern and western India. However, India's robust Integrated Counter-drone Grid and Air Defence systems intercepted these attacks. Following these provocations, India conducted precision strikes against Pakistani Air Defence systems, focusing on neutralizing the systems that facilitated the earlier Pakistani assault.
PM Modi has been vocal about India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. At a rally in Bhuj, he stated that Pakistan views "terrorism as tourism" and that Operation Sindoor was a mission to save humanity and end terrorism. He emphasized that India has adopted a bold approach, striking the enemy directly and decisively. Modi also declared that those who attempted to erase the sacred sindoor (vermillion) have been reduced to dust, and those who spilled India's blood have now paid the price in full.
The Prime Minister's remarks about Pakistani airbases being in "ICU" referred to the destruction of the Rahim Yar Khan airbase and other key military structures during the operation. He asserted that India's forces had significantly damaged these facilities, demonstrating India's unwavering strength and determination.
Operation Sindoor marks a strategic evolution in India's approach to cross-border terrorism. Unlike previous targeted responses, this operation constituted a multi-domain, high-precision offensive across Pakistan's Punjab province and PoJK. The operation involved precision strikes targeting nine sites linked to anti-India terrorist groups. India used advanced weapon systems, including SCALP missiles and SkyStriker suicide drones, to ensure the success of the operation.
The operation has led to a pause in hostilities, with a fragile ceasefire being implemented. However, diplomatic representation remains downgraded, and tensions continue at a relatively low level of intensity. PM Modi has ruled out talks with Pakistan, stating that talks and terror cannot go together.
Operation Sindoor has not only dismantled terror infrastructure but also sent a strong message globally, according to PM Modi. It has demonstrated that India's response to terrorism is no longer limited to diplomatic statements or defensive posturing. It is precise, overwhelming, and timed to inflict maximum cost. India has made it clear that any terror attack will be seen as an act of war.
