Following the deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif weighing in on the events. While condemning the Pahalgam attack as "unfortunate," Sharif's subsequent remarks regarding India's retaliatory operation, "Sindoor," have drawn strong reactions.
The April 22 Pahalgam attack, which targeted tourists in the disputed Kashmir region, resulted in the deaths of 26 people. India has accused Pakistan-backed attackers of being behind the attack, which involved the assailants targeting individuals based on their religion in an attempt to incite communal violence. Sharif, in an address before Pakistan's parliament, reiterated Islamabad's denial of any involvement in the Pahalgam attack.
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India launched "Operation Sindoor," a military operation targeting what it claimed were terror bases inside Pakistani territory. India stated the operation was aimed at destroying the infrastructure of terror groups responsible for the Pahalgam attack. According to Firstpost, during Operation Sindoor, India launched BrahMos missiles at key Pakistani targets, which caused chaos in Islamabad. Rana Sanaullah, a top aide to Pakistan's PM, admitted on live television that the strikes triggered panic, confusion, and total paralysis.
Pakistan reacted strongly, accusing India of committing a "blatant act of war". Sharif denounced India's actions as "cowardly" and pledged retaliation. Pakistan also claimed to have struck Indian military targets and shot down warplanes.
The situation further escalated with reports of attacks on religious sites. India accused Pakistan of using drones and shelling to target the Shambhu Temple in Jammu, a Gurdwara in Poonch, and Christian convents. Pakistan has not responded to these specific accusations.
Amidst the heightened tensions, Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) contacted his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to a ceasefire effective May 10th. Despite the ceasefire agreement, reports indicate that intrusions by UAVs and small drones into Indian civilian and military areas continued, with India claiming to have successfully intercepted them.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions and has urged both sides to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully. The recent statements by Pakistan's Prime Minister underscore the fragility of the situation and the urgent need for de-escalation and constructive engagement to prevent further conflict.
