India-Pakistan Tensions Flare: Pakistan Shoots Down 12 Drones, Warns of 'Clear and Present' Nuclear Threat

The Indian-Pakistani military fight has increased with both nations accusing one another of aggression. The military of Pakistan accused India of launching Israel-produced Harop drones to enter Pakistan's airspace, which India remained silent on. India carried out pre-dawn air strikes on Wednesday, hitting what it referred to as nine militant camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This was a response to a terror attack in April that killed 26 tourists. India said its operation, which it has termed "Operation Sindoor," was targeted and hit terrorist infrastructure.

Pakistan's Response and Claims

Pakistan said it had downed a few Indian aircraft and warned that it would retaliate. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that India must "bear the consequences" of its "cowardly" aggression. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif threatened there was a "clear and present" risk of possible nuclear conflict with India ¹.

Civilian Casualties and Shelling

Heavy shelling has taken place along the de facto Kashmir border, and there have been civilian casualties. The Indian army said 12 Indian civilians and one soldier were killed by "indiscriminate" firing. Pakistan reported at least 31 individuals, including children and women, killed in India's missile attacks.

Aerial Clashes and Downed Aircraft

Witnesses reported a huge explosion lighting up the night sky following a jet crash, even though Indian officials claim no planes were downed. Pakistan asserts that it shot down five Indian fighter aircraft and drones, three of which were Rafale planes, one Sukhoi Su-30, and one MiG-29.

Operation Sindoor: India's Stance

India's Defence Ministry stressed that Operation Sindoor was a "preemptive and precise" operation to provide justice for the Pahalgam massacre. Indian authorities maintain that their operation was measured and precise, targeting terrorist infrastructure.

Global Concerns and Implications

The India-Pakistan conflict has critical implications for regional stability and international security. The international community is observing the conflict closely, calling for restraint and diplomacy to end the conflict.