Pakistan Closes Airspace for 24 Hours After India Strikes; Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, Export Backlog Reported

Pakistan closed its airspace to all domestic and international flights beginning at 3:15 a.m. local time on May 10, 2025, following an escalation of hostilities with India. The closure, announced by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, was initially scheduled until noon but was later extended to a full 24-hour period. The airspace was reopened after approximately 24 hours.

The shutdown was enacted after India reportedly launched missile strikes on three Pakistani air bases—Nur Khan, Shorkot, and Murid—prompting retaliatory Pakistani attacks on Indian military sites under Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, including an S-400 missile defense system and airfields such as Pathankot and Udhampur. Pakistani sources also reported the downing of five Indian aircraft and 77 drones, while India claimed to have destroyed an air defense system in Lahore. Reports indicate civilian casualties in Jammu and at least 48 to 50 fatalities on both sides, though independent verification remains difficult.

The conflict originated from a deadly April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists. India accused Pakistan of involvement, which Islamabad denies. Both countries have since engaged in daily exchanges of missile, drone, and artillery fire.

The airspace closure led to an export backlog at Pakistani ports, with international shipping lines rerouting cargo and imposing up to an $800 surcharge per container. Pakistani authorities also reported a cyberattack that disrupted 70% of India's electricity grid.

The International Monetary Fund approved a $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan during this period. Global powers, including the United States and the Group of Seven, have urged restraint and direct dialogue. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Pakistan's army chief to offer assistance in de-escalation. Both governments have indicated willingness to consider de-escalation if the other reciprocates. Pakistan's National Command Authority convened to discuss security matters.