India launched a series of airstrikes overnight, hitting six different locations in Pakistan. The attacks killed 26 civilians and injured 46 others. DG ISPR Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said the strikes targeted residential areas in Bahawalpur, Muzaffarabad, and Kotli. Among the dead were two three-year-old girls, seven women, and several men. The strikes also damaged mosques and injured children.
Pakistan Downs Indian Aircraft in Retaliation
In response, the Pakistan Air Force quickly launched jets and shot down five Indian fighter planes and one combat drone. The downed aircraft included Rafale, MiG-29, SU-series jets, and an Israeli-made Heron drone. Pakistan intercepted these jets over Indian regions including Bhatinda, Jammu, and Srinagar. DG ISPR said the air force acted only after Indian aircraft had struck Pakistani territory.
Pakistan Strikes Indian Military Post
Pakistan responded by destroying the headquarters of India’s 12th Infantry Brigade, which operates under the 15 Corps. Security sources confirmed the strike and released footage showing the destroyed brigade post. Pakistan warned India against further escalation and called the attacks a violation of international law. The strikes on the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project’s Nauseri Dam especially drew strong condemnation from the military.
Leaders Condemn India’s Aggression
President Asif Ali Zardari denounced the strikes as an unprovoked act of war. He said India’s leadership was prioritizing political goals over peace. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attacks, calling them cowardly and reckless. He pledged a strong response and said the entire nation stood behind the armed forces. AJK Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq vowed to retaliate for the strikes on Kotli and Muzaffarabad.
