Jammu: Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated sharply on Thursday as Pakistan targeted multiple locations in Jammu with loitering munitions, prompting a robust response from Indian Air Defence systems. Sirens blared across the Jammu region, including Akhnoor and Kishtwar, where a complete blackout was enforced for security reasons.
This development follows India’s Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack. The operation involved precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK). India stated that its actions targeted only non-civilian, non-military locations used for terrorist activity.
At a press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized that India’s response was restrained and limited to terrorist camps. “Any further action by Pakistan will be responded to appropriately,” he said, adding that India’s intent was not to escalate tensions but to defend against provocation.
Government sources reported that over 100 terrorists were eliminated in the Indian strikes early Wednesday. In retaliation, Pakistan attempted to target military installations across Northern and Western India—including Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Bhuj—using drones and missiles. However, these were successfully intercepted by India’s Integrated Counter-UAS Grid and Air Defence systems.
On Thursday morning, Indian forces carried out retaliatory strikes targeting Pakistani Air Defence radars and systems, reportedly neutralizing an air defence unit in Lahore.
Meanwhile, Pakistan intensified unprovoked artillery and mortar shelling across the Line of Control (LoC) in several sectors, including Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, Poonch, and Rajouri. The heavy shelling resulted in the death of 16 civilians, including women and children.
India reiterated its commitment to avoid escalation but warned that any aggression would be met with proportional force.
