India and Pakistan Edge Closer to War After Kashmir Strike

On April 22, a bomb detonated in the popular tourist town of Pahalgam killed 26 people, mostly domestic tourists. India swiftly blamed the attack on Pakistan-based militant groups, particularly Lashkar-e-Taiba, citing intercepted communications and prior intelligence. Islamabad denied any involvement, calling the accusations “baseless and politically motivated.”

On May 6, in what Indian officials described as a “measured and necessary response,” the Indian Air Force launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine sites across Pakistani territory and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. These, India claims, were militant training camps and logistical hubs.

Pakistan, however, declared the strikes an act of aggression and retaliation was swift. Islamabad claimed it had shot down five Indian fighter jets and launched artillery barrages into Indian territory, resulting in civilian casualties. India denies losing any aircraft and insists its actions were confined to terrorist targets.

Both sides have since escalated military deployments in the region, and Pakistan has closed its airspace for 48 hours. Meanwhile, civilian defense drills have begun in northern Indian states, underscoring how rapidly the crisis is evolving. There are concerns that India’s recent suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty — a longstanding water-sharing agreement — could deepen hostilities further.

World leaders, including those from the US, China, and Russia, have urged restraint. The UN Security Council held an emergency session on May 5, though no resolution was adopted.

With diplomatic channels strained and nationalist rhetoric on the rise in both capitals, the risk of full-scale war — accidental or otherwise — cannot be dismissed. As ever, Kashmir remains a powder keg.

Dairy News Today will continue monitoring developments closely.