NEW DELHI: Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated sharply early Saturday morning as multiple explosions were reported at several Pakistani military installations. A Reuters witness confirmed blasts at three airbases in Pakistan, sparking fears of a broader regional conflict.
Simultaneously, loud explosions were heard in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir—including Srinagar, Akhnoor, Rajouri, Udhampur, and Poonch—leading to complete power blackouts across affected areas.
Pakistan military spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry addressed the media at 4 a.m., alleging that Indian fighter jets launched air-to-surface missiles at three strategic airbases: Nur Khan, Murid, and Rafiqui. He stated that most of the missiles were intercepted and no critical assets were damaged.
The latest developments follow India’s earlier airstrikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists.
Key Updates So Far:
- India’s Retaliation: According to news agency ANI, India launched a counter-strike on Friday night in response to Pakistan’s assault on 26 locations across the LoC.
- Airbase Strikes: At least four Pakistani airbases were targeted, with Nur Khan, Murid, and Rafiqui specifically named by Pakistan’s military.
- Damage Control: Pakistan claimed that its air defense systems intercepted most of the incoming missiles and that no major damage was sustained.
- Pakistan’s Response: A counterattack was reportedly launched shortly after Lt Gen Chaudhry’s press briefing, according to state media quoted by PTI.
- Airspace Closure: Pakistan shut down its airspace from 3:15 a.m. to 12 noon, with further updates pending.
- Blackouts and Explosions in India: Blackouts were enforced in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Akhnoor and Srinagar, after explosions and sirens were reported.
- Missile Defense Activated: Heavy engagement continues over Srinagar and adjoining areas, with Indian surface-to-air missile systems deployed.
- Civilian Impact: Shelling by Pakistan caused damage in some civilian areas of Jammu city.
- Drone Sightings in Punjab: A separate blackout was imposed in Jalandhar, Punjab, after suspected drone activity was reported.
International Reaction:
The G7 nations issued a joint statement condemning the April 22 terror attack and urging both India and Pakistan to avoid further escalation.
“We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, along with the High Representative of the European Union, strongly condemn the egregious terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and urge maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan,” the statement said.
