On May 7, 2025, India carried out airstrikes called Operation Sindoor. These strikes were done in Pakistan and areas controlled by Pakistan in Kashmir. India did this to take action after a terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Kashmir, where 26 Hindu pilgrims were killed. All of them were men, and many of their wives were left widows.
That’s why the operation was called “Sindoor” — a red powder that married Hindu women wear. The name was chosen to show respect to the women who lost their husbands.
What Did India Hit?
India used Rafale fighter jets to bomb terrorist training camps in 9 different places. These places included:
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Bahawalpur – the hometown of a terrorist group leader.
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Muridke – known for another terrorist group.
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Muzaffarabad and Kotli – both in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.
In one strike, 10 family members of a top terrorist leader, Masood Azhar, were reported to be killed.
India said it did not target any Pakistani military or civilian areas — only places where terrorists were staying or training.
What Did the Indian Government Say?
India said the strikes were based on strong proof and were carefully planned. They said the goal was not to start a war, but to stop future terrorist attacks.
An army officer named Colonel Sophia Qureshi spoke to the media. She said the strikes were very accurate and were done to protect Indian lives.
What Did Pakistan Say?
Pakistan was angry about the strikes. They said India attacked civilian areas and killed 31 people, including women and children. They also said they shot down 5 Indian planes, but India said that was not true.
After the strikes, both countries started firing across the border, which caused more damage and deaths.
What Happened in the Past?
This kind of situation has happened before:
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In 2016, after 19 Indian soldiers were killed, India did surgical strikes across the border.
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In 2019, after a suicide bombing in Pulwama killed 40 Indian soldiers, India bombed Balakot in Pakistan.
Both times, India said it wanted to stop terrorist groups from attacking again.
What is the World Saying?
Countries like the United States, United Nations, UK, China, and Turkey have asked both India and Pakistan to stay calm and not go to war. They want both countries to talk peacefully and solve the problem.
