India Strikes Nine Terror Camps in Pakistan After Pahalgam Attack, Destroys Kasab/Headley Camp; Flights Disrupted

On May 7, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor', targeting nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The operation was a response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, including tourists. The joint operation by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy used special precision munitions and involved Rafale and Su-30MKI jets. Targets included camps in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot, and several in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, such as the camp linked to Ajmal Kasab and David Headley. The Ministry of Defence stated that all nine targets were destroyed and that the strikes were focused and non-escalatory, avoiding Pakistani military and civilian facilities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose the name 'Operation Sindoor' and monitored the operation throughout the night. A press briefing was scheduled for 10:00 AM, and the Indian Army issued a statement: 'Justice is served.' The government also called an all-party meeting for May 8. Flight disruptions were reported at airports in Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, and others, with cancellations extending until May 10. Schools and colleges in several border districts were closed, and red alerts were issued in states including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan. An emergency was declared in Pakistan's Punjab province. Family members of the Pahalgam attack victims expressed support for the operation, calling it a true tribute and justice for those killed. Relatives thanked Prime Minister Modi and the Indian Army, saying the operation kept their trust alive. The Indian government briefed the US, UK, Russia, and Saudi Arabia on the operation. The United Nations and countries such as Qatar and China called for restraint and diplomatic resolution. Pakistan condemned the strikes and announced it would respond. Tensions along the Line of Control increased, with reports of artillery fire and civilian casualties. Indian officials reiterated that the operation targeted only terrorist infrastructure and took precautions to avoid harming civilians.