The Indian Air Force deployed Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs during the 23-minute operation. Key targets included Bahawalpur and Muridke, known hubs for Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba , respectively. India asserts that the strikes were confined to terrorist infrastructure, avoiding Pakistani military facilities.
Pakistan reported that the attacks resulted in 31 civilian deaths and 46 injuries, including children. Among the casualties were ten relatives of JeM leader Masood Azhar. Pakistan’s military claimed to have downed five Indian jets in response, though India has not confirmed these losses.
Following the strikes, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the actions as cowardly and authorized corresponding measures. Subsequent artillery exchanges along the Line of Control led to additional civilian casualties on both sides.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating conflict. Leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, China, and other nations have urged both countries to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Border States Heighten Security Amid Escalating Tensions 