Introduction
On May 7, 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor, a precision military operation targeting alleged terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This decisive action was a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including Indian and Nepali nationals .
Background: The Pahalgam Terror Attack
The Pahalgam attack involved five militants assaulting tourists in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Anantnag district. The assailants, armed with M4 carbines and AK-47s, specifically targeted Hindu tourists, resulting in 26 deaths . This brutal act, captured on video by a tourist, sparked nationwide outrage in India.
Objectives of Operation Sindoor
India’s primary objectives for Operation Sindoor were:
Neutralizing Terrorist Infrastructure: Targeting training camps and logistical hubs associated with militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Deterrence: Sending a strong message against cross-border terrorism.
Justice for Victims: Aiming to bring perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice.
Execution of the Operation
Duration and Timing
Operation Sindoor was a swift, 23-minute-long mission conducted in the early hours of May 7, 2025 .Wikipedia
Aircraft and Weaponry Used
The Indian Air Force deployed Rafale jets equipped with:Wikipedia
SCALP Missiles: Long-range air-to-ground cruise missiles.
AASM Hammer Bombs: Precision-guided munitions for high-accuracy strikes .
Targeted Locations
India conducted airstrikes on nine sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including:AP NewsLatest news & breaking headlinesThe Guardian
Bahawalpur
Muridke
Tehra Kalan
Sialkot
Bhimber
Kotli
Muzaffarabad
These locations were identified as hubs for terrorist activities .
Aftermath and Casualties
Indian Claims
India reported the elimination of approximately 70 terrorists within 24 hours of the strikes.
Pakistani Response
Pakistan condemned the strikes as an unprovoked act of aggression, reporting civilian casualties, including women and children. The Pakistani military claimed to have shot down several Indian aircraft and vowed retaliation
