India’s Operation Sindoor sent a bold “Jai Hind” message, striking nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoJK after the Pahalgam attack. With Rafale jets and precision missiles, the operation targeted Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed strongholds. PM Modi’s leadership, global reactions from the US and Israel, and Pakistan’s retaliation along the LoC mark a tense chapter. Explore the strikes, disruptions, and India’s fight against terrorism in this unfolding story of justice and resolve.
A Bold Declaration
In the early hours of May 7, 2025, the Indian Army sent a clear message with a short but powerful post on X: “Justice is served. Jai Hind!” This five-word statement, paired with a video of military drills captioned “Ready to strike, trained to win,” signaled the launch of Operation Sindoor, a major retaliatory strike against terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The operation was India’s response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 civilians, including 25 Indians and one Nepali. The attack, linked to Pakistan-based groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), sparked widespread outrage and demands for justice.
India’s Measured Approach
The Indian government was quick to clarify the nature of the strikes. A statement from the Ministry of Defence emphasized that Operation Sindoor was “focused, measured, and non-escalatory.” No Pakistani military facilities were targeted, reflecting India’s intent to avoid a broader conflict while delivering a strong message against terrorism. The strikes were carefully planned to hit only terrorist infrastructure, showcasing strategic restraint and precision. This approach was designed to hold those responsible for the Pahalgam attack accountable without escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Nine Terror Camps Targeted
Operation Sindoor struck nine terrorist strongholds across Pakistan and PoJK, dismantling key bases used to plan and execute attacks against India. The targets included:
- Bahawalpur: Headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a group linked to major attacks like the 2019 Pulwama bombing.
- Muridke: A major Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) base, known for training militants.
- Kotli and Muzaffarabad: Terror camps in PoJK used for cross-border infiltration.
- Other sites in Gulpur, Bhimber, Chak Amru, Bagh, and Sialkot, identified as hubs for terrorist activities.
These locations were chosen based on intelligence linking them directly to the Pahalgam attack and other cross-border terror plots. The operation aimed to disrupt the terror ecosystem and prevent future attacks.
High-Tech Arsenal
India deployed advanced weaponry to ensure precision and minimize collateral damage. Rafale fighter jets, equipped with SCALP cruise missiles and Hammer precision-guided bombs, led the strikes. These long-range, deep-penetration weapons allowed India to hit targets from within its own airspace, reducing the risk of escalation. The use of such sophisticated technology underscored India’s growing military capabilities and its commitment to surgical strikes against terrorism.
Leadership in Action
Prime Minister Narendra Modi played a central role in Operation Sindoor. After the Pahalgam attack, he vowed to “identify, track, and punish” the perpetrators, a promise he reiterated in high-level security meetings. Reports indicate that PM Modi monitored the operation throughout the night, ensuring its success. His leadership, combined with the coordination of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, made Operation Sindoor a tri-services triumph.
Pakistan’s Retaliation
Pakistan condemned the strikes as an “act of war” and responded with artillery fire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and Rajouri districts, killing at least three civilians. This marked the 13th consecutive day of ceasefire violations, escalating tensions along the border. Pakistan’s military placed its air force on high alert and vowed to retaliate “at a time and place of its choosing.” Pakistani media reported that airports in Lahore and Sialkot were closed for 48 hours, reflecting heightened security measures.
Flight Disruptions and Local Impact
The operation led to significant disruptions in northern India. Airports in Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar suspended civilian flight operations, with Srinagar’s airfield under Indian Air Force control. Air India canceled flights to several cities, including Jodhpur and Chandigarh, until at least noon on May 7. Schools and colleges in border districts of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan were closed, and Kashmir University postponed all examinations. These measures were taken to ensure public safety amid rising tensions.
Global Reactions
The international community responded cautiously to Operation Sindoor. US President Donald Trump called the strikes “a shame” but hinted at prior knowledge, expressing hope that the situation would resolve quickly. Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, posted on X: “Israel supports India’s right for self-defense. Terrorists should know there’s no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent.” India’s embassy in Washington released a detailed note citing “credible leads” tying the Pahalgam attack to Pakistan-based terrorists, aiming to garner support from key allies like the US. Meanwhile, China urged restraint, and the UN Security Council held closed-door talks, with no consensus reached.
Shaping Global Opinion
India’s diplomatic efforts were swift and strategic. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) briefed key nations, including the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, and Russia, on the operation. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval personally spoke with US officials to explain India’s actions. These efforts aimed to frame Operation Sindoor as a legitimate act of self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter, countering Pakistan’s narrative of “sovereignty violation.” External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized a “zero-tolerance” policy on terrorism, urging the world to stand with India.
Cabinet and Security Meetings
On May 7, a Union Cabinet meeting and a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting were scheduled for 11 AM to discuss the operation and its implications. An all-party meeting was also planned to ensure national unity. These high-level discussions reflect the government’s commitment to transparency and preparedness as tensions with Pakistan persist.
National Unity and Public Sentiment
The “Jai Hind” message resonated deeply across India. Political leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Yogi Adityanath, and Asaduddin Owaisi, praised the armed forces, with posts on X echoing “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and “Jai Hind ki Sena.” Bollywood stars like Riteish Deshmukh and Kangana Ranaut, along with cricketers and TV celebrities, expressed solidarity, amplifying national pride. Hashtags like #OperationSindoor and #PahalgamAvenged trended on X, reflecting strong public support. However, some opposition leaders called for accountability over intelligence failures that allowed the Pahalgam attack.
What Lies Ahead
Operation Sindoor marks a significant moment in India’s fight against terrorism. While the strikes have disrupted terror networks, Pakistan’s response and ongoing LoC violations raise concerns about escalation. The international community’s call for restraint and India’s diplomatic outreach will shape the next steps. India stands united now, with the “Jai Hind” message symbolizing resolve and justice. A detailed government briefing at 10 AM on May 7 is expected to provide further clarity on the operation’s outcomes.
