India Launches Operation 'Sindoor' Strikes on Pakistan; 26 Killed, UN and China Call for Restraint

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following Indian missile and air strikes on sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. India stated the strikes, part of Operation 'Sindoor', were in response to a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22 that killed 26 people, including 25 Indians and one Nepali. India claims its operation targeted nine locations associated with planning attacks against Indian civilians, including a mosque, and did not strike Pakistani military facilities. Pakistan, however, condemned the strikes as an 'unprovoked act of war,' reporting that Indian missiles hit six locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab province, resulting in civilian casualties, including at least 26 deaths and dozens of injuries. In retaliation, Pakistan's military stated it had shot down five Indian aircraft and responded with artillery fire, which Indian authorities said killed at least 15 civilians on their side. Both countries have closed airports and imposed emergency measures in affected regions. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and expelled Pakistani diplomats, while Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian flights. The international community has responded with urgent calls for restraint and dialogue. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the military operations and emphasized that the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan. The United States, United Kingdom, China, France, Russia, Iran, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates have all urged both sides to de-escalate and resolve differences through diplomacy. China described India's military action as 'regrettable,' called for calm, and offered to work with the international community to ease tensions. Afghanistan's government also called for restraint and dialogue, warning that further escalation threatens regional stability.