Tensions have sharply escalated between India and Pakistan following a series of alleged cross-border attacks, drone strikes, and conflicting media narratives, sparking widespread panic in civilian areas, especially in Indian-administered Kashmir.
Conflicting Claims on Air and Drone Attacks
Indian media reported that Pakistan attacked military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur using drones and missiles. However, Pakistani military officials strongly denied these claims, calling them “fake news” and suggesting Indian media is spreading disinformation to fabricate success or justify escalation.
India’s military confirmed the attacks but said there were no casualties and that their forces had neutralised the threats using both kinetic (missiles and drones) and non-kinetic (cyber and psychological) methods.
Pakistan Denies Offensive Actions
Pakistan’s Information Minister and Foreign Ministry both rejected accusations of launching attacks on Indian cities, including Jammu, Pathankot, Jaisalmer, and Srinagar. Islamabad stated no operations have been conducted across the international border and accused India of a disinformation campaign aimed at destabilisation and provoking conflict.
Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that escalation appears “imminent” due to continued Indian aggression, claiming multiple Indian air incursions and asserting Pakistan's right to retaliate.
Alleged Capture of Pakistani Pilot
Indian media outlets have reported that a Pakistani Air Force pilot was captured near Jaisalmer after ejecting from a downed fighter jet, though no official confirmation has been made and Pakistan denies losing any aircraft.
Civilian Panic and Disruptions
Residents in Jammu and Srinagar described waves of drone or missile attacks, explosions, widespread blackouts, and telecom disruptions. Witnesses reported seeing dozens of red and white flashes in the sky. Authorities advised residents to stay indoors, and sirens were heard in several parts of Jammu. Electricity has since been gradually restored, and no confirmed civilian casualties have been reported.
Flight Operations and Security Measures
India has closed 24 airports, mainly in its northern border states, as a precaution. Pakistan’s Karachi airport has resumed operations after a temporary halt, and other airports remain open.
International
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with leaders from both countries, urging de-escalation and expressing concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif accused India of violating Pakistan’s sovereignty, while India’s Foreign Minister Jaishankar said New Delhi responded in a “targeted and measured” manner against cross-border terrorism.
Ongoing Conflict Along the Line of Control
Heavy artillery fire has been exchanged between Indian and Pakistani forces along the Line of Control for a second consecutive night. Community centres and emergency services have been set up in border villages as residents brace for further conflict.
As both nations trade accusations and hostilities continue, the region remains on edge, with fears of further escalation growing by the hour.
Source: Al Jazeera
