Pakistan Reports Missile Attack by India on Airbases; Responds with Retaliatory Measures

Emergency vehicles and personnel were seen moving to secure the entrance of Nur Khan air base after it was struck by missiles launched from India in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

According to the authorities in Islamabad, India launched a missile assault on three air bases within Pakistan on Saturday. Most of these incoming missiles were reportedly intercepted, while military retaliation against India was being initiated as a result. This marks a further escalation in hostilities spurred by last month’s violence, which India attributes to Pakistan.

Military Engagements and Diplomatic Responses

The Pakistani army reported the employment of medium-range Fateh missiles aimed at Indian targets, including a missile depot and airbases situated in Pathankot and Udhampur. However, these claims await independent verification. The army's spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif, reassured the public that the nation's air force capabilities remained intact after the Indian assault, pointing out that some Indian missiles landed in their own territory in eastern Punjab.

Describing the situation as a severe provocation, Sharif noted the absence of immediate feedback from Indian officials on the incident. Concurrently, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, called for a session of the National Command Authority, tasked with overseeing the country's strategic defense assets, in response to the unfolding events.

Rising Tensions and Global Concerns

There has been a marked increase in hostility between these nations since an assault in the Indian-administered region of Kashmir, resulting in 26 fatalities, largely among Hindu tourists, on April 22. India places the blame on Pakistan for encouraging this attack, a charge that Pakistan denies.

On the diplomatic front, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the situation with the Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, Asim Munir, ahead of the missile strikes. The U.S. Department of State spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized Rubio's appeal for de-escalation and expressed America’s willingness to facilitate constructive dialogue to prevent future conflict.

Impact on Civilians and Military Installations

Prior to Pakistan's counterstrike, people in Indian-administered Kashmir reported hearing loud explosions, notably in Srinagar, Jammu, and the military base town of Udhampur. Shesh Paul Vaid, a former police chief from the region, remarked on the intensity of the explosions, indicating the targeting of military installations.

In Srinagar, while the situation remained calm initially, residents near the airport, which serves dual purposes as an airbase, recounted being startled by the noise from explosions and aircraft. A local named Mohammed Yasin mentioned the disturbances woke his children.

Expert Insights and Global Reactions

Praveen Donthi from the International Crisis Group noted the ongoing military rivalry between India and Pakistan has evolved into a quasi-war, although it remains unnamed as such officially. He highlighted the relentless focus on gaining military superiority, alongside increases in civilian deaths, which complicates the path to reconciliation.

Further, India's military confirmed destruction of multiple Pakistani drones near Amritsar. The Indian forces condemned any actions breaching sovereignty and posing risks to civilians. This has led to Pakistan's decision to close its airports, leaving cities buzzing with pro-armed forces chants.

International Community's Stance

The G7 nations have issued a plea for restraint from both parties, expressing concern over the potentially destabilizing effect further military engagements could have on the region.