India Fires Missiles into Pakistan: Tensions Escalate in Kashmir
Published Date: 7th May, 2025
May 7, 2025 – Islamabad, Pakistan – In a significant military escalation, India launched missile strikes into Pakistani-controlled regions of Kashmir and the eastern Punjab province on May 6, 2025. The strikes, which targeted multiple locations, resulted in civilian casualties and have heightened tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
Missile Strikes Across the Border
According to Pakistani security officials, India fired three missiles across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory. The missiles struck at least three locations, including a mosque in Bahawalpur, Punjab, resulting in the death of a child and injuries to two others. The Indian government stated that the strikes were aimed at infrastructure used by militants responsible for a recent attack on Indian tourists in Kashmir, an assault India blames on Pakistan.
Civilian Casualties and Infrastructure Damage
The missile strikes caused significant damage in the affected areas. In Bahawalpur, the targeted mosque was destroyed, leading to the tragic loss of life. Additionally, explosions in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-administered Kashmir, resulted in a power outage, disrupting daily life for residents. The Pakistani government has condemned the attacks, describing them as a violation of its sovereignty and an act of aggression against civilians.
Pakistan's Retaliatory Measures
In response to the missile strikes, Pakistan launched retaliatory measures. Pakistani security forces reported shooting down two Indian jets that had entered Pakistani airspace. The Pakistani military also conducted artillery strikes along the border, targeting Indian positions. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a national security meeting and declared a state of emergency in the affected regions. Airspace was closed, and all flights were diverted to Karachi.
International Reactions and Concerns
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump called the missile strikes "a shame" and urged both India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions. The United Nations has called for maximum restraint from both sides to prevent further violence and potential loss of life. Diplomatic efforts are underway to mediate between the two countries and find a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
The Path Forward
As of May 7, 2025, the situation remains volatile. Both India and Pakistan have mobilized their military forces along the border, and exchanges of fire continue in some areas. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging both nations to engage in dialogue and work towards de-escalating the conflict. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the situation can be stabilized or if further escalation is inevitable.
Date: 7th May, 2025
