May 10, 2025 Early Morning Attack Sparks International Concern
In a dramatic turn of events, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated sharply in the early hours of May 10, 2025. At approximately 6:00 AM IST, Pakistan launched a series of coordinated strikes across northern and western India, in what it has officially named “Operation Bunyan al-Marsus.” The attack is being described as one of the most significant retaliatory military actions by Pakistan in recent years.
Why Did Pakistan Strike?
The operation comes just days after India carried out “Operation Sindoor” on May 7, targeting what it claimed were terrorist training camps in Pakistan. That mission led to the death of Abdul Rauf Azhar, a senior commander of Jaish-e-Mohammed, and several others. In response, Pakistani military leadership vowed retaliation, and today’s strikes mark the realization of that threat.
The backdrop to this conflict traces to the April 23 attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, where 27 people, mostly Hindu tourists, were killed. India blamed Pakistan-based terror groups for the massacre, setting the stage for the current hostilities.
Areas Targeted by Pakistan
The Pakistani strikes targeted a total of 26 locations across several Indian states. The primary regions hit included:
- Jammu & Kashmir: Cities such as Poonch, Baramulla, Uri, and Jammu were hit by precision drone and artillery attacks. Residential buildings, security installations, and local schools suffered damage.
- Punjab: Towns including Amritsar and Firozpur were struck. In Firozpur, drone shrapnel reportedly hit a civilian house, injuring a family of four.
- Rajasthan: Strategic defense zones like Jaisalmer, Pokhran, and Barmer were targeted by missiles. These areas host military testing facilities and radar stations.
- Delhi NCR: The capital region was also among the targets. Air defense systems intercepted multiple aerial threats, but public panic led to temporary closure of several city zones.
Airport Infrastructure Targeted
Reports confirm that Srinagar Airport was one of the high-value targets. Operations were suspended, and the airport was placed on lockdown. Military aircraft were deployed to secure airspace.
Other affected airports include:
- Amritsar Airport: Temporarily shut down due to proximity strikes.
- Jaisalmer Air Force Station: Confirmed hit, with some military assets reportedly damaged.
Casualties and Damage
The death toll in India is currently estimated at:
- At least 15 civilians killed, including 4 children in Baramulla and Jammu.
- More than 40 injured across all targeted zones, with injuries ranging from minor wounds to critical conditions.
- Significant infrastructure loss, particularly in border areas, including destruction of homes, roadblocks, power substations, and at least two school buildings.
In addition to civilian casualties, at least 5 Indian security personnel were killed in separate incidents during the barrage of attacks.
Pakistan’s Official Statement
TheInter-Services Public Relations( ISPR) of Pakistan released a statement claiming that the operation was a “ measured and commensurate response ” to India’s unprovoked aggression. It further advised that any further action by India would be met with “ lesser resoluteness and intensity. ”
India’s Reaction
Indian defense authorities have acknowledged the attacks and confirmed activation of retaliatory protocols. Indian media reports indicate high alert across all major air bases, and movement of additional troops toward sensitive borders in Punjab and Jammu.
International Reactions
Global powers including the United States, China, and Russia have called for immediate de-escalation. The UN Secretary- General has prompted both nations to return to political channels and avoid further military battle.
NATO and EU leaders have expressed enterprises over two nuclear-fortified countries engaging in direct strikes and prompted a halt to conflict.
What’s Next?
The situation remains largely unpredictable. While both India and Pakistan claim to be acting in tone- defense, the scale of direct strikes marks a dangerous shift from deputy- grounded conflict to open military engagement.
The coming days will be critical. However, the region could see further escalation with changeable consequences, If political pressure fails to cool pressures.
