Operation Sindoor: India's Precision Strikes in Response to the Pahalgam Attack

On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack occurred in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of 28 civilians, predominantly Hindu tourists. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-backed militant groups, intensifying tensions between the two nations.

Launch of Operation Sindoor

In retaliation, India initiated Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025. The operation's name, "Sindoor," refers to the vermilion mark worn by married Hindu women, symbolizing the widowing of many due to the Pahalgam attack.

Key aspects of the operation included:

• Targets: Nine terror training camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), associated with groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

• Execution: Precision airstrikes using Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs.

• Duration: Approximately 23 minutes.

• Outcome: India reported the elimination of around 100 terrorists within 26 minutes. Hindustan Times+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1Hindustan Times+1

Escalation and Ceasefire

Following the strikes:

• Pakistan's Response: Pakistan launched Operation Bunyan al-Marsus, targeting various Indian cities, including New Delhi.

• Military Engagements: Both nations engaged in drone warfare and missile exchanges, marking the first drone war between two nuclear-armed countries.

• Ceasefire: A ceasefire was brokered with the assistance of international actors, including the United States. The Wall Street Journal+2Wikipedia+2theaustralian+2

Current Status

Despite the ceasefire:

• Operation Sindoor Continues: India has indicated that Operation Sindoor remains active, emphasizing that normal relations with Pakistan cannot resume until significant changes occur.

• Military Readiness: Both nations maintain high military alertness, with ongoing surveillance and defense measures in place.The Times of India