Islamabad, Pakistan — Tensions escalated between Pakistan and India over the weekend, with Pakistan claiming to have launched retaliatory strikes following an Indian missile attack on multiple military bases. The situation marks a significant uptick in their long-standing conflict, pushing the two nuclear-armed nations closer to the brink of war.
Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, declared that three military installations — Nur Khan, Murid, and Shorkot bases — were targeted by Indian missiles. Speaking on state television early Saturday, Chaudhry characterized the strikes as “naked aggression.” In response, Pakistan initiated Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos, translating to “wall of lead,” targeting specific Indian military sites like the Pathankot airfield and the Udhampur air force base. Eyewitnesses reported hearing loud explosions across the region.
Following the missile attack, Pakistan closed its airspace. Videos circulating on social media depicted flames and smoke rising into the night sky, corroborating accounts of panic among local residents, who described a terrifying early morning as blasts reverberated nearby. “There was a loud explosion that woke everyone up. It was so scary; everyone is still in a panic,” recounted one frightened resident.
The Indian Defense Ministry confirmed it remains on high alert, stating that all aerial threats are being monitored and countered using advanced drone interception systems. In a statement, officials said six ballistic missiles were launched from Indian territory in Punjab, with the bulk intercepted by Pakistani defenses.
This surge in hostilities follows a devastating Indian missile strike on Wednesday that resulted in 31 fatalities across nine locations in Pakistan. This earlier attack was positioned as retaliation against militants who killed 25 Hindu tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, an incident in which India alleged Pakistan had a role.
As both countries exchanged accusations, India reported a new wave of drone strikes originating from Pakistan, targeting 26 locations in Punjab and Indian-administered Kashmir. Although the Indian military claimed to have intercepted several drones, three civilians sustained injuries in the Ferozepur district during the assault.
In a press conference, India accused Pakistan of launching a coordinated drone offensive using hundreds of unmanned aerial vehicles to strike at key infrastructure, including places of worship. “The targeting of temples and gurdwaras is a new low by Pakistan,” remarked India’s foreign secretary, Vikram Misri.
Despite these claims, Pakistan’s Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, flatly denied any participation in drone attacks, asserting that the country had not initiated any offensive actions. A Pakistani security official, however, hinted at a strategic buildup, suggesting that the recent strikes were a precursor to a more extensive retaliatory campaign. “When we hit back, everyone will know,” the official stated.
The military engagement escalated further during the previous week’s clashes, where Pakistan deployed over 100 aircraft in defense against Indian airstrikes. In reports following these skirmishes, Pakistan claimed to have downed five Indian fighter jets, which India has yet to confirm despite debris from several aircraft being found in Indian territories.
As military tensions continue to mount, Chaudhry emphasized Pakistan’s resolve to respond appropriately. “We will not de-escalate – with the damages India inflicted upon us, they should expect a response,” he said. The discourse between the nations signals a potential shift in military strategy, with both sides bracing for further developments in this ongoing crisis.