Operation Sindoor: India Targets Nine Terrorist Sites in Pakistan and PoK

In a significant military escalation, India launched “Operation Sindoor” on May 7, 2025, targeting nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was a direct response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 Indian tourists.

Targets of Operation Sindoor

The Indian Armed Forces conducted precision strikes on the following locations:

Bahawalpur, Muridke, Gulpur, Bhimber, Chak Amru, Bagh, Kotli, Muzaffarabad, Sialkot

The Indian Air Force deployed Rafale fighter jets equipped with SCALP cruise missiles and AASM Hammer bombs to execute the strikes, which lasted approximately 23 minutes. The operation was described by Indian officials as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” targeting terrorist infrastructure linked to LeT and JeM, with no Pakistani military facilities hit.

Casualties and Damage

Pakistan reported that the strikes resulted in the deaths of 31 civilians, including at least two children, and injured 46 others. Pakistan also claimed to have shot down five Indian fighter jets in response to the airstrikes, a claim disputed by India. In retaliation, Pakistan’s military launched artillery shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in the deaths of 12 Indian civilians.

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.