In a powerful address to the nation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned India’s recent missile strikes as a “cowardly” act of aggression, declaring them an “act of war” and pledging a decisive response. The strikes, which occurred on the night of May 6–7, targeted multiple locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab, resulting in at least 26 civilian deaths and 46 injuries.
Prime Minister Sharif stated that India had made a grave mistake and would have to “bear the consequences.” He emphasized that Pakistan would not back down and was prepared to defend its sovereignty. The Prime Minister also noted that the Pakistani military had delivered a “crushing” response, downing five of India’s Rafale jets and destroying several military installations.
The Indian government launched the strikes under the operation code-named “Sindoor,” claiming to target terrorist infrastructure linked to the April 22 attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 Indian tourists. However, Pakistan has denied any involvement in the attack and condemned India’s actions as violations of international law.
In the aftermath, Pakistan closed its airspace and suspended flights in affected regions. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Calls for restraint and dialogue have been issued by various governments and organisations.
As the situation remains tense, both nations have convened emergency security meetings, and the global community watches closely, hoping for de-escalation and a return to peace.
