The Indian government stated that the operation targeted facilities associated with groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad. The strikes were described as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” with an emphasis on avoiding civilian casualties and Pakistani military installations.
Pakistan reported that the missile attacks resulted in the deaths of at least three civilians, including a child, and injured 12 others. The Pakistani government condemned the strikes, labeling them as unprovoked aggression, and vowed to respond at a time and place of its choosing.
In the aftermath of the strikes, Pakistan announced the closure of key airports for 48 hours, including those in Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar, citing security concerns. The Pakistani military also reported shooting down two Indian fighter jets that allegedly violated its airspace, a claim that India has not confirmed.
The international community expressed concern over the escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The United Nations Secretary-General called for maximum restraint from both sides, urging dialogue to resolve the conflict. Russia expressed support for India’s actions against terrorism but also encouraged both nations to engage in discussions to address their differences.