In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Pakistan has vowed to avenge the Indian air strikes that New Delhi carried out in response to a deadly attack in the India-controlled Kashmir region.
So far, at least 43 people have died in the cross-border exchanges. Islamabad reports that 31 civilians were killed by Indian strikes and shelling along the Line of Control, while New Delhi says 12 people died in Pakistani shelling.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared, "We make this pledge, that we will avenge each drop of the blood of these martyrs."
Pakistan military spokesman Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry claimed that five Indian jets were downed across the border, while an Indian security source told AFP that three Indian fighter jets crashed on home territory.
Both sides have exchanged heavy artillery fire along the Line of Control, with India insisting its actions have been "focused, measured and non-escalatory."
Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to bolster domestic popularity and warned that Islamabad "won't take long to settle the score."
Chaudhry emphasized Pakistan's right to self-defense "at a time, place and manner of its choosing" and said the armed forces have been authorized to respond.
This latest flare-up follows a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22 in the India-controlled Kashmir region. As tensions mount, the risk of a wider conflict is drawing global attention.
Data at a glance:
- Deaths: 43 in total (31 civilians, 12 from shelling)
- Jets downed: Pakistan claims 5; India reports 3 crashes
- Trigger: Attack on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22
For young global citizens and business leaders, these developments serve as a reminder of how regional disputes can ripple across markets, supply chains and travel plans—underscoring the importance of diplomatic restraint in a hyperconnected world.
Stay tuned for ongoing coverage as both sides brace for the next chapter in this high-stakes standoff.
Reference(s):
Pakistan vows to avenge Indian strikes amid calls for restraint
cgtn.com
