Late on Friday, fighting intensified in Indian Kashmir and the Sikh holy city of Amritsar, marking the worst conflict with Pakistan in nearly three decades. The Indian military reported shooting down drones, with blasts echoing in Amritsar—an escalation in the ongoing hostilities that have raised alarm among global powers. In response to perceived aggression from India, the Pakistani military launched “Operation Bunyanun Marsoos,” retaliation targeting Indian airfields like Pathankot and Udhampur. The operation’s name, rooted in a Quranic verse, signifies an “unbreakable wall.”
Indian officials noted that drones were sighted across 26 locations, including the winter capital Jammu, which experienced a blackout amidst the conflict. Explosions were also reported near the airport in Srinagar, indicating widespread violence across the region. Since the conflict reignited, around 48 casualties have been reported on both sides, though these figures are unverified. Additionally, a family in Punjab suffered severe injuries from an armed drone strike.
Civilian life has been drastically affected; residents are fleeing border zones, stockpiling food, and advised to stay indoors. India’s cricket board postponed the Indian Premier League, while Pakistan’s cricket league canceled the remaining matches. Historical tensions between India and Pakistan have persisted since their independence in 1947, with both countries fighting three wars and engaging in numerous clashes, particularly over Kashmir.
In response to the increasing violence, the U.S. is advocating for de-escalation, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in contact with both nations’ leaders. As hostilities continue, regional and international observers remain concerned about the potential for a broader conflict.
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