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Operation Sindoor
In the early hours of May 7, 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor, a series of precision airstrikes targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, where 26 civilians, including Indian and Nepali nationals, were killed in Jammu and Kashmir.
Objectives and Execution
Operation Sindoor aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), the groups India holds responsible for the Pahalgam attack. The strikes, conducted between 1:05 AM and 1:30 AM, targeted locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Bhimber.
The Indian Air Force utilized Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs to carry out the 23-minute operation. Importantly, the strikes were designed to avoid Pakistani military installations, focusing solely on terrorist camps to minimize escalation.
"प्रहाराय सन्निहिताः, जयाय प्रशिक्षिताः"
— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 6, 2025
Ready to Strike, Trained to Win.#IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/M9CA9dv1Xx
Symbolism Behind ‘Sindoor’
The operation’s name, ‘Sindoor’, holds deep cultural significance. In Hindu tradition, sindoor is a red powder symbolizing marital commitment. The Pahalgam attack specifically targeted men, leaving many women widowed. By naming the operation ‘Sindoor’, India paid tribute to the victims and their families, emphasizing the personal and national loss.
Domestic and International Reactions
Domestically, Operation Sindoor received widespread support across the political spectrum. Various leaders praised the armed forces for their decisive action. Families of the Pahalgam victims expressed relief and a sense of justice being served.
Internationally, reactions were mixed. While countries like Israel supported India’s right to self-defense, others urged restraint to prevent further escalation.
Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing Artillery in Bhimber Gali in Poonch- Rajauri area.#IndianArmy is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner. pic.twitter.com/mbOXnQ5mMd
— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 6, 2025
Aftermath and Escalation Risks
Following the strikes, Pakistan reported civilian casualties and vowed retaliation. Skirmishes along the Line of Control intensified, raising concerns about potential escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
India maintained that the operation was a measured response aimed at terrorist infrastructure, not an act of aggression against Pakistan. The situation remains tense, with both nations on high alert.
