Indo-Pakistani War of 1965: Battles, Heroes, and Lasting Impact
Published: Saturday, May 10, 2025 | By The Dainik News Team
New Delhi/Lahore: The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 was a defining moment for both nations, fought over the unresolved issue of Kashmir. This 17-day conflict witnessed some of the largest tank battles since World War II, and its legacy continues to shape the geopolitics of South Asia[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8].
Background: Kashmir and Operation Gibraltar
The seeds of the 1965 war were sown in the lingering tensions over Kashmir, left unresolved after the first war in 1947-48. In August 1965, Pakistan launched Operation Gibraltar, sending thousands of armed infiltrators into Indian-administered Kashmir. The goal was to incite an uprising among the local population and destabilize Indian control[2][3][4][6].
India responded forcefully, deploying its army to flush out the infiltrators. Skirmishes quickly escalated along the ceasefire line, and within weeks, the conflict had spread to the international border.
Major Battles and Turning Points
- Battle of Asal Uttar: One of the largest tank battles in history took place near Khem Karan in Punjab. Indian forces, using clever tactics and the region’s flooded fields, destroyed or captured over 100 Pakistani Patton tanks.
- Battle of Chawinda: Near Sialkot, both sides engaged in intense tank and infantry combat. The battle ended in a stalemate, but Indian advances put pressure on Pakistani defenses.
- Lahore Front: Indian troops crossed the international border and advanced towards Lahore, capturing several key positions before halting at the city’s outskirts.
- Air and Naval Engagements: Both air forces launched strikes on each other’s bases. The Indian Navy blockaded the port of Karachi, limiting Pakistan’s supply lines.
The war caused heavy casualties on both sides, with thousands killed or wounded and significant equipment losses.
International Diplomacy and the Tashkent Agreement
As the fighting intensified, international concern grew. The United States and Soviet Union, fearing a broader conflict, intervened diplomatically. On September 22, 1965, a UN-mandated ceasefire was declared, ending active hostilities[2][3][4][6][7].
In January 1966, Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Pakistani President Ayub Khan met in Tashkent (now in Uzbekistan) for peace talks brokered by the Soviet Union. The resulting Tashkent Agreement called for both sides to withdraw to pre-war positions and restore diplomatic relations.
Aftermath and Legacy
The 1965 war ended without a clear victor, but India was widely seen as having the upper hand, having repelled Pakistani advances and captured territory in several sectors. The conflict exposed weaknesses in both militaries and led to significant reforms.
The war also deepened mistrust between the two nations. While the Tashkent Agreement restored peace, it did not resolve the underlying Kashmir dispute. The legacy of the 1965 war continues to influence India-Pakistan relations, with periodic flare-ups along the Line of Control.
Conclusion
The Second Indo-Pakistani War stands as a testament to the enduring volatility of the subcontinent. Its lessons-on diplomacy, military strategy, and the costs of unresolved disputes-remain relevant for policymakers and citizens alike.
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