Islamabad, Pakistan — Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated dramatically following a series of airstrikes carried out by India targeting multiple sites in Pakistan-administered territory. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned these strikes as “cowardly” attacks and stated that Pakistan has the right to respond decisively to what he labeled as an “act of war.”
Sharif’s comments were shared on social media, emphasizing national unity in the face of aggression. He called upon the Pakistani people to support the armed forces in addressing the perceived threat posed by India. The prime minister confirmed that actions are already being taken in retaliation for the attacks.
In a confirming report from the Pakistani armed forces’ media wing, Director General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry stated that at least two Indian fighter jets had been shot down in the aftermath of the strikes. Additional reports from an anonymous security official suggested that two more jets could have been downed, providing details about where these incidents occurred.
Witnesses from the Neelum Valley indicated ongoing cross-border shelling that followed the Indian airstrikes. Local residents described the situation as alarming, with mortar fire creating a state of constant concern. “The booming sounds have kept everyone awake, and there is a palpable fear for safety,” said Jawad Ahmed Paras, a resident, portraying the anxiety permeating the area.
The airstrikes come amid a backdrop of heightened tensions following a deadly attack earlier this month in Indian-administered Kashmir, in which Islamist militants killed 26 people. In a subsequent speech, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hinted at taking control of water resources flowing into Pakistan, raising further alarm. Pakistan’s officials have warned that such actions would constitute an “act of war” under international law.
In response to the escalating conflict, India has suspended its part of the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty, which is critical to Pakistan’s agricultural sector. The treaty governs the distribution of river waters that are vital for the livelihoods of millions of Pakistanis.
The situation has spurred severe responses from both sides. Following the aerial encounters, both nations have fortified military positions along the Line of Control, leading to exchanges of artillery fire. Reports indicated casualties on both sides, with Pakistan’s defense minister confirming civilian deaths resulting from the strikes.
As part of its military response, the Pakistani prime minister convened a meeting of the national security committee to strategize on how to proceed. Reports also indicated that Pakistan’s emergency precautions, including a state of emergency declared in Punjab, reflect the seriousness of the situation.
Amidst this backdrop of military tension, diplomatic channels remain crucial. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s upcoming visit to New Delhi, following discussions in Islamabad, signals ongoing attempts at mediation in the crisis. The international community, including the UN Secretary-General, has urged restraint, cautioning that any military confrontation would have dire consequences for regional stability.
As both nations continue to exchange fire, the world watches closely, resonating with apprehension over the potential ramifications of this conflict.