Escalating Tensions Between India and Pakistan Result in Air Strikes and Blackouts

Jammu, India — Residents in Jammu, a city in the Indian-administered region of Jammu & Kashmir, reported a complete blackout and multiple explosions late Thursday night as tensions escalated between India and Pakistan over military strikes across their shared border. This surge in violence comes after a series of missile and drone attacks exchanged between the two nations.

Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar denied claims that the country had targeted any locations across the international border. He labeled reports from Indian media as disinformation aimed at masking India’s losses during recent military engagements. “We have only given a defensive response so far! International community may take note,” Tarar wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

On Thursday evening, the Indian government reported missile strikes on military bases in Jammu and regions close to the border. Eyewitness accounts from the area indicated missile streaks in the sky, and videos circulated on social media displaying scenes of the explosions. Local reports suggested that air defense systems had been activated to counter these attacks.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, expressed concern on X, stating, “Deeply disturbing reports are emerging from Jammu, where air strikes have reportedly hit certain areas.”

The Independent Defence Staff of India claimed that no casualties resulted from the encounters, asserting that any potential threats were neutralized effectively. Meanwhile, Pakistani state media dismissed India’s accusations, branding them as “imaginary” and politically motivated.

Government sources in India have stated that their military installations are under attack, implicating several districts in Jammu. An unnamed Indian security official asserted that missile interceptions occurred successfully, minimizing damage.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri defended the actions taken by the government, emphasizing that their military responses were “targeted, precise, and controlled.” He refuted Pakistani claims of extensive civilian damage from Indian strikes, which had been reported in the media.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly held a phone call with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during which he emphasized the need for both nations to de-escalate the conflict. This dialogue reflects ongoing international concern regarding the fragile situation in the region.

The conflict has been further complicated by claims from Pakistan’s Ministry of Defense, suggesting potential retaliation for what they describe as India’s aggression. As of now, both nations remain on a heightened state of alert as military operations continue.