India-Pakistan Crisis Escalates After Cross-Border Strikes on Kashmir
- Bob Smile Smith
- May 7
- 1 min read
Updated: May 8
Tensions between India and Pakistan have surged dramatically in the past 24 hours, as a new wave of cross-border air and missile strikes by Indian forces hit targets deep within Pakistan-administered Kashmir and areas near the border. According to Indian officials, the strikes targeted militant bases allegedly linked to extremist groups responsible for a recent attack on Indian tourists in Kashmir.
Islamabad, however, has denied the presence of such facilities and called the operation a violation of sovereignty, further fueling the diplomatic crisis. In a move reminiscent of the 2019 Balakot strike, India’s action signals a more aggressive stance aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure across the Line of Control (LoC).
Pakistan has responded by claiming it successfully shot down multiple Indian aircraft, though New Delhi has not confirmed these reports. Military analysts now warn that a full-scale military retaliation by Pakistan could lead to escalation between the two nuclear-armed rivals, placing the entire South Asian region on high alert.
Political and Public Reactions
In Pakistan, while immediate public reaction has been more subdued compared to previous flare-ups, experts believe the military might tap into nationalist sentiment to consolidate internal support. Meanwhile, India’s government, under pressure to respond decisively, is emphasizing deterrence without triggering uncontrolled conflict.
Diplomatic Fallout
The diplomatic fallout has already begun. Both nations have taken punitive actions, including the expulsion of diplomats and closure of airspace, echoing past crises like the 2002 standoff. Global powers are closely monitoring the situation, with urgent appeals for de-escalation.
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