India has carried out airstrikes on militant camps in Pakistan after several Indian tourists were killed in Kashmir. This strong action shows rising tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries and highlights India’s firm stance against terrorism from across the border.
According to the Indian Ministry of Defence, the airstrikes happened early in the morning. Fighter jets hit and destroyed several terror sites believed to be linked to the recent attacks. These locations were found through a week of intelligence gathering and surveillance.
Pakistan, on the other hand, has condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of its sovereignty. The Pakistani military confirmed the strikes but claimed there were no casualties and accused India of spreading misinformation to divert global attention. Meanwhile, India remains firm on its narrative, stating that only non-civilian terror targets were hit and that the mission was pre-emptive and necessary.
Growing International Response and Diplomatic Tensions
The international community has expressed growing concern over the rising tensions in the region. Countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France have urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for dialogue and de-escalation, offering to mediate between the two sides.
Back home, the Indian government is receiving strong support from political parties and citizens alike. Vigils and rallies have been held across several cities in memory of the slain tourists. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation, assured that every loss of innocent life would be avenged, and no act of terror would go unanswered.
Close Line of Control (LoC)
Security has been heightened in major Indian cities, especially in regions close to the Line of Control (LoC). The Indian Army has also been put on high alert, with additional troops deployed in sensitive zones to prepare for any retaliatory action from Pakistan.
Tourism, which had been recovering post-COVID in the Kashmir Valley, is once again under threat. Tour operators have reported mass cancellations, and advisories have been issued asking tourists to refrain from visiting the region until the situation stabilizes. Local businesses are bracing for losses amid fears of prolonged instability.
Analysts suggest that while the surgical strikes demonstrate India’s military capability and resolve, they also risk dragging the subcontinent into a cycle of retaliatory violence. Peace advocates on both sides are urging a return to diplomacy before the situation spirals further.
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