On May 7, 2025, India launched "Operation Sindoor," a coordinated military offensive targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This action was a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, predominantly Hindu tourists .
Background: The Pahalgam Attack
The Pahalgam attack, attributed to The Resistance Front—a group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba—marked a significant escalation in cross-border terrorism. In its aftermath, India undertook several diplomatic measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, expelling Pakistani diplomats, and halting visa services for Pakistani nationals .
Execution of Operation Sindoor
In the early hours of May 7, Indian armed forces executed 24 precision missile strikes on nine identified terrorist targets across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Key locations included Bahawalpur, Muridke, Muzaffarabad, and Kotli—areas known for housing Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen facilities .
The operation utilized advanced weaponry, including Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs. Notably, this marked the first instance since the 1971 war where India's Army, Navy, and Air Force conducted a joint operation against Pakistan .
Outcomes and Casualties
India reported the elimination of over 70 militants and injuries to more than 60 others, significantly impairing the operational capabilities of targeted terrorist groups . Conversely, Pakistan reported 26 civilian deaths and 46 injuries, including damage to civilian structures such as mosques .
In retaliation, Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian aircraft and conducted missile strikes resulting in civilian casualties on the Indian side. However, India confirmed only one aircraft crash near Srinagar and refuted claims of additional losses .
International Reactions
The operation drew significant international attention. The United Nations, United States, United Kingdom, and China urged both nations to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation . Airspace closures and heightened military alerts underscored the gravity of the situation.
Significance of the Codename "Sindoor"
The codename "Sindoor" holds symbolic significance. In Hindu culture, sindoor is a red powder applied by married women. The Pahalgam attack predominantly targeted men, leaving many women widowed. The operation's name serves as a poignant reminder of the personal losses endured and India's resolve to address cross-border terrorism.
Conclusion
Operation Sindoor represents a pivotal moment in India's counter-terrorism strategy, showcasing a unified military response to cross-border threats. While it underscores India's commitment to national security, the operation also highlights the delicate balance required to manage regional tensions, especially between two nuclear-armed neighbors. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for diplomatic solutions to ensure lasting peace in the region.
