New Delhi: In a decisive and powerful military response, India launched coordinated missile and drone strikes on the Pakistani cities of Lahore and Sialkot on Thursday evening. The retaliation came after Pakistan fired multiple missiles and deployed drones targeting key Indian defence installations across Jammu, Udhampur, Akhnoor, Pathankot, and Jaisalmer, leading to a dramatic escalation in hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
What Triggered the Retaliation?
Earlier in the evening, Pakistan launched eight missiles aimed at high-value Indian military zones including Satwari, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia in the Jammu region. All incoming missiles were successfully intercepted and neutralised by India’s advanced air defence systems. However, the offensive also involved loitering munitions and combat drones, several of which were detected and intercepted over Udhampur, Jammu, and Jaisalmer. Loud explosions and flashes lit up the night skies, confirming active engagements by Indian air defence units.
India’s Counterstrike
In retaliation, India executed a swift and targeted operation striking deep into Pakistani territory.
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Lahore and Sialkot were hit by precision-guided missiles and drone assaults targeting suspected terror infrastructure and command hubs.
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The Indian Air Force successfully destroyed Pakistan’s AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System), severely limiting Pakistan’s aerial surveillance capabilities.
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In addition, India reportedly neutralised an air defence system in Faisalabad, creating further vulnerability in Pakistan’s military grid.
Indian Army’s Statement
An official statement from the Indian Army confirmed that multiple Pakistani drone intrusions were detected along the western borders. “Our forces remain on high alert and are actively engaged in intercepting and destroying all incoming aerial threats. The response was calibrated, restrained, and focused on neutralising strategic assets aiding terrorism,” the statement read.
Blackouts & Civilian Precautions
In anticipation of further escalation, blackouts were enforced across several Indian cities including Bikaner, Jalandhar, Samba, Kishtwar, Akhnoor, Amritsar, and Jammu. Authorities issued advisories asking civilians to remain indoors and avoid border-adjacent areas.
Diplomatic Response
Addressing a media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reiterated that India’s actions were defensive and proportionate.
“The original escalation was by Pakistan on April 22. Our operations have been targeted, restrained, and specifically directed at terror camps — not civilian or conventional military targets. Any further provocation will be met with equal or greater force,” he asserted.
Misri emphasized that the Indian government will continue to prioritize national security while avoiding civilian casualties. He also confirmed that diplomatic backchannels remain open but warned that India will not hesitate to respond to any future acts of aggression.
Background: Operation Sindoor
This series of events follows India’s earlier counter-terror operation ‘Operation Sindoor’, in which Indian forces carried out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation marked a significant shift in India’s counter-terrorism doctrine, signaling zero tolerance for cross-border terrorism.
What’s Next?
With tensions at their highest point in years, defence analysts believe that international mediation may be necessary to prevent further escalation. The United Nations and major world powers have begun issuing calls for restraint, while both India and Pakistan are reportedly mobilising additional air and ground assets along their borders.
Stay tuned for verified updates and official responses.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for real-time updates and verified information.
Image source: AP news Blackout in Sialkot, Pakistan
