In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Pakistan launched a coordinated attack involving over 50 drones and multiple missiles targeting Indian military and civilian sites across Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat on the night of May 8, 2025. The Indian Army and Air Force responded with a large-scale counter-drone and missile operation, successfully neutralising all incoming threats and preventing casualties.
In retaliation, India conducted precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under “Operation Sindoor.” Both nations have exchanged stern warnings, while global leaders, including the US Secretary of State, have called for restraint and a return to dialogue.
A Night of Sirens, Blackouts, and Defence Readiness
The attacks began just after midnight, when air raid sirens blared and power blackouts swept through key northern and western cities, including Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, and Chandigarh.
Residents reported hearing explosions and seeing anti-aircraft fire lighting up the sky as the Indian Army’s air defence units, supported by the Air Force, deployed L-70 guns, Zu-23mm, Schilka systems, and advanced missile interceptors such as the S-400 Triumf, Barak 8, and Akash.
According to the Ministry of Defence, “All incoming drones and missiles were swiftly neutralised using kinetic and non-kinetic measures in line with established protocols.” No injuries or major property damage have been reported, but debris from the neutralised drones and missiles is being analysed as evidence of cross-border aggression.
In a statement, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the armed forces for their vigilance: “Our forces have once again demonstrated their capability and resolve to protect the nation. Any provocation will be met with a decisive response.” Former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed relief that civilian lives were spared, but urged both sides to avoid further escalation.
Operation Sindoor and International Reactions
India’s swift retaliation came in the form of “Operation Sindoor,” a series of precision missile strikes targeting at least nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These strikes were reportedly carried out in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives and was traced to groups operating from across the border. Indian officials emphasised that the strikes were limited to terror infrastructure and avoided civilian areas.
The Pakistani government, in turn, accused India of drone and missile strikes in major cities like Lahore and Karachi, claiming civilian casualties and temporarily shutting down airports in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad as a precaution.
Meanwhile, the United States, through Secretary of State Antony Blinken, called on Pakistan to end support for terrorist groups and urged both countries to exercise restraint. The United Nations and European Union have also appealed for calm, warning that further escalation could destabilise the region.
Background: Rising Tensions and the Road Ahead
This confrontation is the latest in a series of incidents that have heightened tensions along the India-Pakistan border in recent months. The ceasefire agreement reached in 2021 has been repeatedly tested by cross-border shelling, infiltration attempts, and now, the use of drones and missiles.
Analysts note that the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and precision-guided munitions marks a dangerous new phase in the conflict, raising concerns about miscalculation and unintended escalation.
Despite the military posturing, diplomatic channels remain open. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, after a meeting with his Iranian counterpart, reiterated India’s preference for dialogue but warned that “any attack on Indian soil will be met with a firm and proportionate response.” Civil society groups on both sides have called for restraint, highlighting the human cost of conflict and the urgent need for peace.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The events of the past week are a sobering reminder of how quickly tensions can spiral out of control, threatening the safety and well-being of millions. The Logical Indian commends the professionalism of our armed forces in averting tragedy, but we believe the true measure of strength lies in the ability to pursue peace, not just to win wars. Escalation benefits no one-least of all the ordinary citizens who bear the brunt of conflict.
We urge leaders in both India and Pakistan to step back from the brink and recommit to dialogue, empathy, and cooperation. Can civil society, youth, and international partners play a greater role in bridging divides and fostering trust? What steps can we take, as a community, to support peace and stability in South Asia? Share your thoughts below and join us in advocating for a future built on harmony and coexistence.
