Operation Sindoor: India’s targeted missile strikes on terror camps in PoK mark a major escalation in the India–Pakistan Kashmir dispute, following the Pahalgam attack.
Overview of Operation Sindoor
On May 7, 2025, India initiated Operation Sindoor, a high-precision military campaign against nine alleged terror training camps across Pakistan-administered Kashmir and northern Pakistan. Launched in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack—where 26 tourists were killed—this operation marked the most significant use of long-range missiles by India in decades.
Background and Rationale
India cites credible intelligence linking these camps to the Pahalgam assault. Named “Sindoor” to symbolize a decisive red line, the campaign aimed to dismantle infrastructure used for cross-border militancy.
Strategic Objectives
- Eliminate training facilities for terrorist cadres
- Deter future attacks against civilian targets
- Signal India’s readiness to respond swiftly to major provocations
Execution and Tactics
Indian forces employed BrahMos and Prithvi ballistic missiles, alongside Sukhoi fighter jets, ensuring rapid engagement with minimal warning. Strikes occurred under cover of darkness, leveraging electronic warfare to degrade Pakistani radar.
Target Selection
Camps near Mir Ali, Pabbi, and Kotli were prioritized based on satellite imagery and human-intelligence reports. Indian Air Marshal A.K. Bharti later displayed footage of destroyed bunkers and weapon storage sites.
Casualties, Damage, and Pakistani Response
Official Indian statements claim “complete neutralization” of all nine camps. Pakistan reports 35–40 military personnel losses and limited collateral damage in adjacent villages. Islamabad condemned the strikes as a breach of sovereignty and temporarily closed its airspace.
International and Diplomatic Reactions
- United States: Urged restraint and called for an immediate ceasefire.
- China: Warned against unilateral military actions that risk regional stability.
- United Nations: Secretary-General emphasized the need for renewed dialogue on Kashmir.
Outlook and Next Steps
While Operation Sindoor demonstrated India’s enhanced strike capabilities, it risks a deeper military spiral. Observers warn that without simultaneous diplomatic engagement, both sides may default to tit-for-tat escalation, undermining any fragile ceasefire efforts. Continuous international mediation will be critical to prevent further erosion of peace along the Line of Control.
