KKN Gurugram Desk | On May 7, 2025, India launched a major military operation against terrorist bases in Pakistan in response to the deadly attack on Indian soil. Dubbed Operation Sindoor, this attack targeted nine key terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), destroying them with precise airstrikes and missile attacks. This aggressive retaliation has not only sent a strong message to Pakistan but also highlighted India’s growing determination to combat terrorism.

In this article, we will explore the full details of Operation Sindoor, its implications on India-Pakistan relations, and the political and military responses that followed. Let’s dive deeper into the operation’s timeline, the role of India’s leadership, and the international reactions to this bold move.

What is Operation Sindoor?

Operation Sindoor is a military operation carried out by the Indian Armed Forces, aimed at eradicating terrorist cells operating within Pakistan. The name of the operation, suggested by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, symbolizes the deep emotional and nationalistic sentiment tied to the mission. The operation took place on the night of May 7, 2025, exactly 15 days after the Pahalgam attack, where 25 Indians and a Nepali national lost their lives due to a terrorist attack orchestrated from these terror sanctuaries.

India’s military launched Operation Sindoor to destroy nine terrorist hideouts, including key strongholds of major terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The success of this operation is believed to have resulted in the death of over 70 terrorists, with several others injured or captured.

Key Targets and Locations of the Airstrike

The operation primarily targeted terror bases located in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and various parts of PoK (Pakistan-occupied Kashmir). Bahawalpur, located in Punjab, is known as the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a prominent terror group responsible for many attacks on Indian soil. Similarly, Muridke is infamous for being the operational hub of Lashkar-e-Taiba.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and other defense agencies deployed airstrikes that successfully wiped out these terror infrastructures. The attack, carried out at approximately 1:00 AM IST, caused significant damage to the bases, leading to massive casualties among terrorist ranks.

India’s Leadership and Strategic Oversight

One of the critical elements of the operation was the direct oversight of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who ensured that the mission was executed flawlessly. Prime Minister Modi remained in continuous communication with his security advisers and military commanders, closely monitoring the developments throughout the night. His active role underscored the high importance of this operation in India’s fight against terrorism.

The operation was carefully coordinated by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, who played a crucial role in planning and executing the mission. Senior military officials, including Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, provided tactical support and ensured that the operation’s objectives were met with precision.

The Political Reactions: India’s Unified Stand Against Terrorism

Following the successful completion of Operation Sindoor, India’s political leaders unanimously supported the action, emphasizing that India would not tolerate terrorism on its soil. Home Minister Amit Shah held discussions with the heads of the Border Security Force (BSF), Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister, and the Lieutenant Governor to ensure that security measures were heightened across the border regions.

BJP President JP Nadda reiterated that the attack on Pahalgam and subsequent Operation Sindoor was a testament to India’s commitment to national security. He emphasized that India’s stance was clear: “If you attack India, you will face the consequences.” Additionally, India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar posted a message on social media urging global solidarity in combating terrorism, reinforcing India’s resolve to continue its fight against militant forces.

Global Reactions: Pakistan and Beyond

The news of India’s airstrikes reverberated across the globe. Pakistan, on its part, expressed strong opposition to the strikes, with Pakistani officials calling the action a “military assault” and claiming the right to retaliate. However, Pakistan’s Defense Minister conceded that the Indian military had successfully eliminated the terrorist strongholds.

Internationally, India’s actions drew mixed responses. China, a close ally of Pakistan, expressed concern over the escalation of tensions between the two nations and urged restraint. On the other hand, many world powers, including the United States, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom, acknowledged India’s right to defend its sovereignty but called for de-escalation to avoid a larger regional conflict.

India’s National Sentiment: A Nation United

At home, the airstrikes were met with overwhelming support from the Indian public. In areas like Matia Mahal, Delhi, and Jama Masjid, local residents celebrated India’s bold move against terror. Many expressed pride in the actions of the Indian Armed Forces, with messages of unity and patriotism being shared across social media platforms.

The attack not only avenged the lives lost in the Pahalgam attack but also brought a sense of justice to those who had suffered from years of cross-border terrorism. Families who had lost loved ones in such attacks expressed relief, with individuals like Ashnaya, a victim of the Pahalgam attack, stating, “Today, I feel that justice has been served, and terrorism needs to be eradicated wherever it exists.”

Pakistan’s Internal Challenges Post-Strike

In Pakistan, the aftermath of the airstrikes has caused significant unrest. The Pakistan Army scrambled to assess the damage, with several of its officers reportedly visiting local hospitals to track the casualties. The strikes caused major disruptions in these areas, with many reports indicating that residents of Bahawalpur, Lahore, and Muridke were woken by the sound of explosions and the sight of missile fire.

Pakistan’s media outlets also carried extensive coverage of the strikes, with some reports claiming that the attack had caused massive civilian displacement. However, Pakistan was quick to accuse India of escalating tensions and violating international peace protocols.

Looking Forward: What’s Next for India and Pakistan?

As Operation Sindoor concludes, the next steps for both nations remain uncertain. With Pakistan declaring its intention to retaliate, military analysts are closely monitoring developments along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB). India’s forces are on high alert, ensuring that any further action by Pakistan will be met with an equal or stronger response.

In the international arena, discussions are expected to intensify regarding the role of global powers in maintaining peace in South Asia. While many support India’s right to defend itself, the fear of a larger war looms large as both nations mobilize their military forces in anticipation of possible escalations.

India’s Operation Sindoor marks a significant moment in the ongoing India-Pakistan rivalry. The operation has demonstrated India’s readiness to take decisive military action in the face of cross-border terrorism. While the immediate goal of the operation was to neutralize terrorist threats, its broader implications for regional stability and global peace remain to be seen. As both countries brace for potential fallout, the world watches closely, hoping that diplomatic efforts will succeed in preventing further violence.

Stay tuned for more updates on the India-Pakistan tension and the developments surrounding Operation Sindoor as the situation evolves.