India-Pakistan Conflict Escalation

The India-Pakistan conflict has reached a boiling point, with both nations engaging in retaliatory strikes and aerial attacks. Here's a breakdown of the situation:

Key Developments

- *India's Retaliatory Strikes*: India launched precision strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in response to a deadly attack in Kashmir that killed 26 tourists.

- *Pakistan's Claims*: Pakistan claimed India fired a missile at Afghanistan to destabilize regional security, which was rejected by Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence.

- *Aerial Attacks*: India targeted Islamabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and four Air Force bases, while Pakistan launched high-speed missiles at an air base station in Punjab.

- *International Response*: The US Secretary of State urged de-escalation, while China's Foreign Ministry called for peace and stability.

Military Operations

- *Operation Sindoor*: India launched a coordinated fire assault on terrorist launchpads, destroying infrastructure and capabilities.

- *Drone Strikes*: Pakistan deployed Turkish-made Kamikaze drones, which were neutralized by India's Air Defence System.

Diplomatic Efforts

- *Pakistan's Outreach*: Pakistan reached out to India, urging de-escalation and expressing willingness to meet officials.

- *Saudi Arabia's Mediation*: Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister held talks with Indian and Pakistani counterparts, urging de-escalation.

Economic Impact

- *IMF Loan*: Pakistan received a $1.4 billion loan from the IMF, which has raised concerns about the fund's impact on the country's military activities ¹.