New Delhi/Islamabad — The geopolitical landscape of South Asia has been dramatically altered following India’s launch of “Operation Sindoor,” a series of precision strikes targeting militant camps in Pakistan. This military action was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians and was claimed by the Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba.
The Genesis of Operation Sindoor
On May 7, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces executed 14 coordinated strikes over a 23-minute period, targeting nine locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab province. Utilizing Rafale aircraft equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, the operation aimed to dismantle infrastructure associated with terrorist groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Notably, Indian forces employed Indo-Israeli SkyStriker loitering munitions, marking a significant advancement in India’s military capabilities .
The operation’s codename, “Sindoor,” holds symbolic significance. In Hindu culture, sindoor is a red pigment applied by married women, and the name underscores the targeting of Hindu men in the Pahalgam attack, leaving their wives widowed .
Pakistan’s Response and Escalation
In retaliation, Pakistan launched drone and missile strikes targeting multiple Indian cities, including Amritsar. India’s S-400 missile defense system successfully intercepted these attacks, marking its first combat use. Subsequently, India conducted Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) operations, neutralizing Pakistani air defense systems in Lahore. Pakistan claimed to have shot down 25 Israeli-made Harop drones, although Indian sources confirmed only one drone loss .
The Line of Control (LoC) witnessed intensified hostilities, with Pakistani troops shelling areas in Kupwara and Baramulla districts of Jammu and Kashmir. India responded with artillery fire, further escalating tensions .
International Reactions and Diplomatic Efforts
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict. Countries including China, Russia, and the United States have urged both nations to exercise restraint and engage in diplomatic dialogue. Former U.S. President Donald Trump labeled the situation a “shame,” emphasizing the need for de-escalation .
India has suspended visa services for Pakistani nationals and canceled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned visits to Europe. Meanwhile, Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian airlines and warned against violations of water treaties .
Civil Defense Measures in India
In anticipation of potential further escalations, India conducted a nationwide emergency preparedness drill, “Operation Abhyaas,” on May 7. The exercise involved testing air raid sirens, readying bomb shelters, simulating blackouts, and training civilians in emergency response procedures across 244 districts .
Outlook
As both nations brace for potential further confrontations, the situation remains volatile. The international community continues to advocate for diplomatic solutions to prevent a full-scale conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
