Blasts were reported in Indian Kashmir and Amritsar, Punjab, as the Indian military engaged drones amid escalating tensions with Pakistan. This conflict, the worst in nearly three decades between the nuclear neighbors, follows Pakistan’s military declaring an operation named “Operation Bunyanun Marsoos” in retaliation for what it termed “Indian aggression.” Pakistani forces claimed they targeted India’s Pathankot Airfield and Udhampur Air Force Station.
Explosions, including ten blasts near Srinagar’s airport, prompted a blackout in Jammu, and projectiles were noted in the night sky. The Indian military reported spotting drones in 26 locations across multiple states bordering Pakistan. The escalating violence has already resulted in around 48 deaths on both sides, with unverified casualty figures reported. Tensions were sparked by India’s earlier strikes against what it identified as “terrorist infrastructure” in Pakistan, in response to a recent attack on Hindu tourists in Kashmir, which Pakistan denied involvement in.
The situation led to panic among local residents and tourists, prompting some to flee border zones and stockpile food. Authorities advised people to stay indoors, and major sports leagues, including India’s IPL, suspended events due to the unrest. This ongoing conflict highlights the long-standing animosity between India and Pakistan since their 1947 independence, marked by three wars and numerous skirmishes over Kashmir. The U.S. administration, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in touch with both countries’ leaders, is advocating for de-escalation to prevent further conflict.
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