India and Pakistan Exchange Military Strikes: India and Pakistan engaged in direct military confrontation overnight, marking one of the most dangerous escalations between the nuclear-armed rivals in years. The crisis began when Indian warplanes struck at least nine targets inside Pakistani territory, which New Delhi described as “terrorist infrastructure.”
The Indian military released footage of the operation, framing it as retaliation for a February suicide bombing in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 people. India blamed Pakistan-based militants for the attack.
“It was deemed essential that the perpetrators and planners of the 22nd April attack be brought to justice,” an Indian government spokesperson stated.
Pakistan denied involvement in the Kashmir bombing and condemned India’s strikes as “an unprovoked act of war,” claiming civilian casualties. Islamabad later announced it had shot down five Indian jets during the confrontation—a claim New Delhi disputes.
Flashpoint Kashmir
The heart of the conflict remains Kashmir, the Himalayan territory divided between the two nations since 1947. Both countries claim the region in full and have fought three wars over it.
Global Alarm
The international community expressed deep concern as the crisis unfolded. U.S. President Donald Trump called for restraint:
“I know both very well and I want to see them work it out… They have got tit for tat, so hopefully they can stop now.”
What’s Next?
Analysts warn the situation remains volatile:
Both nations have mobilized additional troops along the border
Pakistan has vowed to respond to India’s strikes
World leaders are urging diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation
The confrontation represents the most serious test of nuclear deterrence in South Asia since the 2019 Pulwama crisis. With both nations possessing nuclear arsenals and hardened political positions, the international community watches nervously for signs of further escalation.
Source: raialkhalij + aljazeera