India Launches Strikes on Pakistan Following Kashmir Attack

In a significant escalation of hostilities, India initiated "Operation Sindoor" on May 7, targeting what it described as terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan. This military action was in direct response to the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, where 28 civilians, predominantly Hindu tourists, were killed—a massacre India attributes to Pakistan-based militant groups. \

Operation Sindoor and Its Aftermath

The operation involved a 23-minute aerial assault utilizing Rafale jets equipped with SCALP cruise missiles and HAMMER bombs. Targets included locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Muzaffarabad. Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh reported that the strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 100 militants, including close associates and family members of Jaish-e-Mohammed leader Masood Azhar. \

Pakistan condemned the strikes as "cowardly" and vowed retaliation. In the immediate aftermath, Pakistani forces engaged in heavy mortar and artillery shelling across the Line of Control (LoC), targeting civilian areas in Poonch district. Reports indicate at least 15 Indian civilians were killed and 43 injured in these attacks. 

Aerial Engagements and Escalation

The conflict intensified with one of the largest aerial dogfights in recent history. On May 7, approximately 125 Indian and Pakistani fighter jets engaged in combat over the LoC. Pakistan claims to have shot down five Indian jets using Chinese-made PL-15 missiles, while India has not confirmed these losses. This confrontation marks the first time a Dassault Rafale jet has been lost in combat. 

International Concerns and Calls for De-escalation

The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict between two nuclear-armed nations. The United States, United Kingdom, China, and the G7 have urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been in direct contact with both governments, offering support for de-escalation efforts. 

Humanitarian Impact

The ongoing conflict has had a severe impact on civilians. In addition to the casualties from the initial attacks and subsequent shelling, thousands have been displaced from border areas. Major cities like Delhi have seen panic-buying of essentials, and the Indian Premier League has suspended games due to the unrest. 

Prospects for Peace

While both nations have signaled a willingness to de-escalate, provided the other side reciprocates, the situation remains volatile. Analysts warn that without meaningful political engagement and confidence-building measures, the risk of further escalation remains high. 

Summary & Description (Meta Tag):
India launches "Operation Sindoor" targeting militant infrastructure in Pakistan following the Pahalgam massacre, leading to significant military escalation and international concern.

Keywords (Meta Tag):
India-Pakistan conflict, Operation Sindoor, Kashmir massacre, aerial dogfight, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Pahalgam attack, nuclear tensions, international diplomacy, civilian impact, South Asia security.