India attacks Pakistan early Wednesday as it launched missile strikes into Pakistani territory, hitting at least three sites.
One missile fell in Bahawalpur, Punjab, killing an eight-year-old boy and wounding two teenagers. Pakistan called the action “a grave violation of international law” and summoned India’s envoy to protest.
New Delhi said it targeted camps used by militants behind the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. Gunmen disguised in army uniforms opened fire on Hindu pilgrims at Baisaran meadow. Twenty-six people died and 17 were hurt, most of them visitors from other Indian states. India blamed groups based in Pakistan for planning the massacre. Islamabad has denied any role.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s office said the strikes were “carefully calibrated” to hit only militant bases. “We will not hesitate to act against any group that threatens our citizens,” a spokesperson said.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the strikes “unprovoked aggression.” He pledged to “defend our people and sovereignty.” Pakistan’s military said it held a National Security Committee meeting and warned of a strong response if India struck again.
As India attacks Pakistan, this marks the latest flare-up in a long-running feud over Kashmir. Since the partition of British India in 1947, India and Pakistan have fought three wars over the region. Both sides claim it in full but control only parts.
Tensions rose again in April. After the Pahalgam attack, India closed its airspace to Pakistani planes, stopped trade, and expelled Pakistani diplomats. Pakistan, in turn, suspended a key water-sharing treaty and tested a ballistic missile on May 3 as a show of force.
The United States and United Nations have urged calm. A White House spokesman said both sides must “step back from the brink.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that any further military action could spark a wider conflict in South Asia.
For now, both governments insist they seek peace. But the cycle of attack and retaliation has made the region more dangerous.
…With News Wires
