India Strikes Nine Sites in Pakistan, Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir; Islamabad Vows Response

India Strikes Nine Sites in Pakistan, Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir; Islamabad Vows Response

New Delhi/Islamabad – Loud explosions were reported across parts of Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Wednesday, as India announced it had carried out targeted strikes on what it described as “terrorist infrastructure” atnine locations. In response, Pakistan condemned the attacks and promised retaliation.

Residents in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, reported a blackout following the blasts. The exact nature and extent of the damage remain unclear.

In a statement, the Indian government confirmed the launch of Operation Sindoor, stating that its armed forces had struck sites used to plan and coordinate terrorist attacks against India.

“The Indian armed forces launched ‘Operation Sindoor,’ hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where attacks against India have been planned and directed,” the statement said.

India emphasized that the operation was “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” adding that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted. “India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and the method of execution,” it said.

A spokesperson for Pakistan’s military, speaking to broadcaster ARY, confirmed that missile strikes had taken place in three areas and warned that Pakistan would respond accordingly.

The strikes follow heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, triggered by an attack last month on Hindu pilgrims in Indian-administered Kashmir that left 26 dead. India has blamed Pakistan for the assault, while Islamabad has denied involvement and accused India of preparing for military action.