Escalation in Kashmir: India-Pakistan Conflict Intensifies Amid ‘Operation Sindoor’
Tensions between India and Pakistan have reached a critical juncture following a series of military strikes and retaliatory actions that have resulted in significant casualties and heightened fears of a broader conflict.
The Catalyst: The Pahalgam Attack
The recent escalation was precipitated by a terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 Indian tourists. The attack was attributed to The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. India alleges that this group operates as a proxy for organizations supported by Pakistani military intelligence.
Operation Sindoor: India’s Retaliatory Strikes
In response, India launched “Operation Sindoor” on May 6, 2025, targeting nine sites within Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The strikes reportedly killed 26 people, including at least two children, and injured 46 others. India claims to have targeted terrorist infrastructure linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Pakistan condemned the strikes as acts of war and claimed to have downed several Indian jets. Heavy artillery shelling ensued along the Line of Control (LoC), affecting civilians on both sides.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened an emergency National Security Committee meeting and vowed a firm response. The Pakistani government authorized retaliatory “corresponding actions,” and heavy artillery shelling followed along the LoC. Pakistan also closed its airspace for at least 48 hours, severely disrupting flight operations
International Reactions
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions. The United Nations, China, Russia, and Western countries have urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Impact on Civilian Life
The conflict has severely disrupted civilian life. In Pakistan, schools and colleges were closed, and examinations were postponed. In India, at least 25 airports across northern, central, and western parts of the country were temporarily shut down until May 10
Economic Implications
The escalating conflict has also affected the financial markets. On May 8, 2025, Indian benchmark indices showed muted performance as traders responded to the geopolitical tensions. The Nifty 50 remained flat at 24,411.5, and the BSE Sensex recorded a slight dip to 80,776.75. Market volatility eased following recent spikes triggered by the militant attack in Indian Kashmir.
Outlook
As of now, both nations remain on high alert, and the situation continues to evolve. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging both India and Pakistan to prioritize dialogue and de-escalation to prevent further loss of life and regional instability.