Tensions between South Asia’s nuclear-armed neighbours, India and Pakistan, have sharply escalated in recent weeks following a deadly terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, prompting airstrikes, diplomatic fallout, and growing international concern.

On April 22, 2025, armed militants opened fire on a group in the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 people, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali national. India alleged that the attacks had been carried out by militant groups with the support of Pakistan, an allegation that was denied by Pakistan. 

On May 6, the Indian government announced “Operation Sindoor,” a coordinated series of airstrikes on what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab. Indian Air Force jets reportedly conducted surgical strikes aimed at militant groups they held responsible for the attack in Pahalgam. Indian Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri today claimed that Pakistan is a “haven for terrorists” during a briefing on the operation. 

It’s been reported that officials said the operation was “limited in scope” and aimed at preventing future cross-border attacks. They emphasised that no civilian or Pakistani military targets were intentionally hit, while Pakistan has reported civilian casualties due to the Indian attacks. 

Pakistan confirmed that Indian aircraft crossed into its airspace and claimed to have downed five jets. In response, Pakistan launched retaliatory strikes near Indian military outposts along the Line of Control. Pakistani officials reported at least eight civilian deaths and dozens injured.

Islamabad condemned the Indian strikes as an “unprovoked and blatant act of war” and said that Pakistan reserves the right to respond “at a time and place of its choosing.”

At the time of publication India has not made an official comment in response to the downing of the jets. 

The United Nations, United States, and several European nations have urged restraint as the Pakistan and Indian army exchange gunfire over the Line of Control. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has called for maximum military restraint while China and the UAE have both also called for restraint from both sides. 

Australia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has also issued a statement, with a spokesperson for Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirming that Australia is “engaging with both India and Pakistan in response to recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir.”

“We don’t want to see escalatory actions, which pose a risk to regional peace and security,” the spokesperson said. “Australians in affected areas should monitor updated Smartraveller advice.”