In a dramatic escalation of long-standing regional tensions, the Indian military confirmed it launched targeted missile strikes across the Line of Control (LoC) into Pakistani-administered territory late Monday night. According to Indian defense officials, the strikes were aimed at what they described as “terrorist launchpads and infrastructure used to facilitate cross-border incursions.”
The Indian Ministry of Defence stated that the operation was a “pre-emptive counter-terror measure” following intelligence reports indicating imminent threats of militant infiltration. “India will not tolerate any threat to its sovereignty and will take decisive steps to protect its citizens,” Defence Minister Arjun Bhagat said during a press briefing.
Pakistan, however, condemned the strikes as a “blatant violation of international law and territorial integrity,” calling them “unprovoked aggression.” The Pakistani Foreign Office summoned the Indian High Commissioner in Islamabad to register a formal protest, warning that such actions would have “serious consequences for regional peace and stability.”
Unverified reports from local media in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir suggest several explosions near the towns of Muzaffarabad and Kotli, though casualty figures remain unclear. Residents in affected areas reported loud blasts and power outages late at night. Emergency response teams have been dispatched, but access to the region remains restricted.
The international community has responded with concern. The United Nations Secretary-General issued a statement urging both nations to “exercise maximum restraint” and to avoid any steps that could lead to a broader conflict. The United States and China have both called for an immediate de-escalation and offered to mediate.
This marks the most serious cross-border military exchange since the February 2019 Balakot airstrikes and subsequent aerial dogfights. Analysts warn that continued hostilities could derail fragile diplomatic overtures and economic cooperation efforts in the region.
India and Pakistan, both nuclear-armed nations, have fought multiple wars since gaining independence in 1947, with Kashmir remaining the most contentious issue.
As of Tuesday morning, Indian armed forces remain on high alert along the border, while Pakistan has reportedly moved additional troops and air defenses into forward positions. Regional observers are closely monitoring developments amid fears that further retaliation could lead to a full-scale military confrontation.
