India launches Operation Sindoor, targets militant sites in Pakistan

India launches Operation Sindoor targeting militant sites in Pakistan

Missile strikes hit Pakistani territory following deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir

India carried out a series of precision missile strikes across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory early Wednesday, as part of a newly launched military initiative dubbed Operation Sindoor. The strikes, aimed at what Indian authorities described as militant infrastructure, resulted in the death of at least one child and injuries to two civilians, according to Pakistani security officials.

Context: Retaliation for Pahalgam attack

The cross-border operation follows a deadly militant assault last month in Pahalgam, located in the Indian-administered part of Kashmir. The attack claimed the lives of 26 people and significantly escalated tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

In response, India’s Ministry of Defence confirmed on Wednesday that it had targeted at least nine locations allegedly linked to planning cross-border attacks. “Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature,” the Ministry’s statement said. “No Pakistan military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.”

Indian army cryptically announces the strike

Following the strikes, the Indian Army posted a message on social media platform X, stating: “Justice is served. Long live India.” The post was accompanied by an image featuring the words “Operation Sindoor,” signaling the codename for this military response.

Flights disrupted amid rising regional alert

In the wake of the missile strikes, a spokesperson for Pakistani Airlines confirmed that multiple scheduled flights were postponed due to the rising security alert. Commercial airspace restrictions are expected to remain in place until further assessments are made by Pakistani aviation authorities.

Diplomatic implications and international watch

Despite New Delhi's assurances that no military installations in Pakistan were targeted, the move is likely to draw international attention and calls for restraint. With both nations maintaining strong military capabilities and a history of cross-border confrontations, the latest development adds a fresh layer of volatility to an already fragile regional balance.

As this story develops, regional observers and global leaders are closely monitoring the situation for potential escalations or diplomatic fallout.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for verified updates and in-depth analysis as this story continues to unfold.