- By: Dr. Muhammad Tayyab Khan Singhanvi, PhD
On the night of May 6, 2025, India launched 24 missile and weapons attacks on six different locations in Pakistan, including three major cities: Kotli, Muzaffarabad (Azad Kashmir), and Ahmadpur East (Bahawalpur, Punjab). These strikes claimed the lives of eight innocent civilians—including children—injured 35 men and women, and left two citizens missing. The Indian Ministry of Defence described the attacks as an “anti-terror operation” under the title Operation Sindoor, claiming it to be a “precautionary measure” following the Pahalgam attack. Pakistan, however, condemned the move as blatant aggression and a violation of international law. In response, Pakistan downed five enemy fighter jets, including Rafales, and one drone, and destroyed India’s brigade headquarters, a border checkpoint near the Line of Control, and eight military installations. Pakistan’s counterattack targeted Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora, Poonch, Rajouri, Kargil, Leh, Akhnoor, and inflicted heavy damage on the Indian airbases in Srinagar and Pathankot.
- Nature of the Attack, Targets, and Civilian Casualties:
According to DG ISPR Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, India deliberately targeted civilian areas. The most tragic incident occurred at the Subhan Allah Mosque in Ahmadpur East, where worshippers were engaged in prayer. The missile strike caused extensive damage to the mosque and led to civilian casualties. In Kotli and Muzaffarabad, the civilian population also suffered partial damage, and essential infrastructure, such as electricity and communication networks, was disrupted.
- Historical Context and Current Tensions:
India-Pakistan relations have long been fraught with tension, but the recent Pahalgam attack—which resulted in 26 Indian civilian deaths—marked a new turning point. India promptly blamed Pakistan, which strongly denied any involvement and called for an impartial investigation by the United Nations. India’s unilateral military action appears to be a direct result of this escalated tension.
- Pakistan’s Response and Strategy:
Pakistan swiftly retaliated, not only militarily but also by closing its airspace to all domestic and international flights. According to aviation authorities, the airspace has been shut down for 48 hours, and a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) has been issued. DG ISPR announced that Pakistan will deliver a “crushing response” at a time and place of its choosing, adding that eight major Indian military targets have been identified. Pakistani military units have been placed on high alert, and civil defense systems have been activated.
- Diplomatic Efforts:
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reached out to the United Nations, the OIC, China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and other key global powers. The UN Secretary-General has urged both sides to exercise restraint, while China and Turkey have expressed support for Pakistan’s stance. The OIC is also considering convening an emergency session.
- International Media and Global Public Opinion:
International media outlets such as CNN, BBC, and Germany’s DW have described India’s attack as an unconventional and dangerous act that risks direct conflict between two nuclear powers. Analysts warn that such actions could spiral into a large-scale war with catastrophic consequences. Even U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the Indian strikes, calling them “shameful” and “irresponsible.”
- Domestic Scenario: The Need for National Unity:
Internally, unity among the political leadership, military, and the public is crucial. The Prime Minister has invited leaders of all political parties to a national security meeting. Gaining the public’s trust and ensuring accurate information dissemination via media is now essential to curb rumors and counter the enemy’s propaganda. Citizens are urged to rely solely on verified updates from the Ministry of Information and ISPR and to avoid sharing unverified content on social media. There is a looming threat of cyberattacks from Indian cyber groups, particularly the alleged threat actor “SideWinder,” known for phishing campaigns targeting Pakistani officials. These phishing emails often mimic Pakistan’s own cyber security directorates. To counter such threats, it is vital to deploy email filtering solutions, malware detection systems, and spam checkers.
- Defense Analysis and Strategic Outlook:
Experts assert that India’s actions not only violate international laws but also set a dangerous precedent. A timely and effective response is crucial; otherwise, India may feel emboldened to continue such aggressive actions. However, Pakistan must consider its defense capabilities, international reputation, and the sanctity of human life while formulating a strategy.
India’s missile strikes are not just an assault on Pakistan’s sovereignty—they also pose a grave threat to the broader peace of South Asia. While Pakistan has demonstrated restraint by avoiding an immediate large-scale retaliation, it has made it clear that a response is inevitable. It is now imperative for the international community to take this situation seriously and pressure India to cease its irresponsible behavior.
- The Way Forward:
- Strengthening the Diplomatic Front: Pakistan should formally lodge a complaint against India at the United Nations and intensify diplomatic efforts globally.
- Military Preparedness: All military installations, airbases, and defense systems should remain on high alert.
- Media Management: Pakistan must present its position to national and international media clearly and credibly.
- National Unity: The nation—including the public, media, and political leadership—must unite under a single narrative to prevent India from exploiting internal divisions.
- Legal Recourse: Pakistan should file a case against India at the International Court of Justice for human rights violations and breaches of the UN Charter.
This is a time for calculated wisdom and measured retaliation. The enemy must be made to realize that while Pakistan is indeed a proponent of peace, it is never negligent in its defense.
Alhamdulillah, Pakistan Army Zindabad!
India, recognizing its defeat, has waved the white flag.