India-Pakistan War Escalation May 2025: Drone Strikes, Operation Sindoor, and Global Reactions
Published: Saturday, May 10, 2025 | By The Dainik News Team
New Delhi/Islamabad: The India-Pakistan border is witnessing its most intense escalation in years, with both nations exchanging drone and missile strikes, launching precision military operations, and trading accusations of civilian and military casualties. As of May 10, 2025, the situation remains volatile, with global powers urging restraint and dialogue[1][4][5][6][7][8][10][11].
How the Latest Crisis Unfolded
The current escalation began after a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, which killed 26 civilians. India blamed Pakistan-based militants and responded with Operation Sindoor, a series of missile and drone strikes targeting alleged terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)[1][4][6][11].
Pakistan refuted the allegations and launched its own retaliatory strikes, deploying drones and missiles across India’s western border. Both sides have since engaged in heavy cross-border shelling, drone warfare, and air defense operations, resulting in dozens of fatalities and injuries[4][5][6][7][8].
Operation Sindoor: India’s Precision Strikes
On May 7, India launched a wave of missiles and drones, striking nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and PoK, including sites linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen[1][6][11]. Indian officials described the operation as “measured and responsible,” emphasizing that military targets were carefully selected to minimize civilian harm.
- Key Pakistani bases in Sialkot, Bahawalpur, and Muridke were targeted.
- Pakistan reported at least 31 civilian deaths and dozens wounded.
- India claims over 100 terrorists were killed in the strikes.
- Operation Sindoor is reportedly ongoing, with further strikes possible.
Pakistan’s Response: Drone and Missile Attacks
Pakistan’s armed forces retaliated with “multiple assaults” using drones and munitions along India’s entire western frontier. Explosions and blackouts were reported in Jammu, Amritsar, and other locations in Punjab[4][5][7]. The Indian Army stated that it had successfully intercepted aerial threats overnight, showcasing robust air defense capabilities.
- Pakistan claimed to have downed five Indian aircraft and shot down several drones over Karachi and Lahore[7][8].
- India reported neutralizing Pakistani attempts to strike military installations using drones and missiles.
- In Ferozpur, Punjab, three civilians were injured when debris from a downed Pakistani drone struck a home.
- Pakistan’s Defense Minister warned of further “appropriate actions” if Indian strikes continue.
Casualties and Humanitarian Impact
The ongoing violence has resulted in nearly 40 fatalities, including civilians on both sides of the border[4][5][7][8]. Blackout drills and air raid warnings have become routine in border districts, with residents in Punjab, Jammu, and Kashmir advised to relocate to safer areas. Panic-buying and disruptions to daily life have been reported in several towns.
Both governments have urged citizens to rely on official sources and avoid spreading misinformation, as fake news and rumors continue to circulate online[1][4].
Global Response and Calls for Restraint
International leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and the United Nations, have called for “maximum military restraint” and offered to mediate. Secretary of State Rubio spoke with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging both sides to avoid further escalation and to act against terrorist groups[11].
"India’s approach is always measured and responsible," said External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. Pakistan’s Defense Minister warned, "We won’t take long to settle the score if provoked."
What’s Next?
As of May 10, 2025, both India and Pakistan remain on high alert. Operation Sindoor is still ongoing, and cross-border drone and missile attacks continue. The world watches anxiously, hoping that diplomatic efforts will soon bring an end to the violence and prevent a wider conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
The Dainik will continue to provide timely, fact-checked updates on this developing story. For in-depth analysis or to share information, contact us at dainikpulsenews@gmail.com.