India, Pakistan Exchange Strikes Amid Rising Tensions

Tensions between India and Pakistan sharply escalated after India launched targeted strikes against what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, following a deadly attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir that left 26 people dead. India claimed its operations, dubbed 'Operation Sindoor,' were focused, measured, and specifically avoided Pakistani military or civilian targets, aiming to dismantle groups responsible for attacks on Indian soil. Pakistan, however, reported civilian casualties—including children—and condemned the strikes as unprovoked aggression, vowing to retaliate and alleging that several Indian aircraft were shot down. Both nations exchanged artillery and missile fire, raising fears of a wider military confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbors. The U.S. and international observers have expressed concern about the potential for further escalation in the conflict, urging restraint from both sides. The situation remains volatile with casualties reported on both sides and no independently verified casualty figures as of yet.