Operation Sindoor: Detailed Overview
Date of Operation: May 7, 2025
Reason: Retaliation to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 Indian tourists.
Objective: To destroy Pakistan-based terrorist infrastructure responsible for cross-border terrorism.
Planning and Execution
The operation was jointly conducted by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. It involved precision strikes launched from within Indian territory and possibly via drones, missiles, and long-range artillery. The primary goal was to avoid full-scale conflict while inflicting maximum damage to terror networks.
9 Major Terror Targets Hit
According to the Times of India, the nine terror camps targeted were:
- Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur (Jaish-e-Mohammed HQ)
- Markaz Taiba in Muridke (Lashkar-e-Taiba HQ)
- Sarjal, Tehra Kalan – JeM training site
- Mehmoona Joya, Sialkot – Hizbul Mujahideen camp
- Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala – LeT hideout
- Markaz Abbas, Kotli – JeM operations base
- Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli – HM base
- Shawai Nalla Camp, Muzaffarabad – LeT location
- Syedna Bilal Camp, Muzaffarabad – JeM launch pad
Over 70 terrorists were reportedly killed during the operation. Photos released showed destroyed camps, burnt vehicles, and cratered grounds.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan labeled the operation an “act of war” and claimed civilian casualties—26 dead and over 40 injured. It alleged that Indian aircraft were shot down and vowed “appropriate military response.” Shelling was reported on Indian border villages, causing additional tension.
Diplomatic Fallout
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that Pakistan would consider de-escalation only if India halts its military posture. India, however, reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and stated that all targets were carefully chosen to avoid civilian harm.
International Reactions
Countries like the United States, Russia, France, and China urged restraint and offered to mediate. The United Nations called for de-escalation and stressed dialogue. The situation remains tense, with ongoing diplomatic and military monitoring.
Impact and Analysis
Operation Sindoor represents one of the most coordinated Indian military responses in recent years. It signals India’s shift toward assertive counter-terrorism strategies, especially after civilian casualties on home soil.