India-Pakistan Wars and Conflicts
The India-Pakistan conflict has a long and complex history, with multiple wars and skirmishes since their independence in 1947.
Here's a brief overview:
Major Wars
- First Indo-Pak War (1947-1948):
The war started when Pakistan-backed tribal forces invaded Kashmir, prompting the Maharaja to accede to India. A UN-brokered ceasefire divided Kashmir between India (about 2/3rd) and Pakistan (1/3rd).
- Second Indo-Pak War (1965):
Pakistan's Operation Gibraltar aimed to infiltrate Kashmir and incite rebellion, but the war ended in a stalemate. The Tashkent Agreement restored pre-war boundaries.
- Third Indo-Pak War (1971):
India supported East Pakistan's fight for independence, leading to a decisive victory and the creation of Bangladesh. Over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered.
- Kargil War (1999):
Pakistani soldiers and militants occupied Indian positions in Kargil, but India recaptured the territory after intense fighting. International pressure forced Pakistan to withdraw.
Ongoing Tensions
Despite no full-scale war since 1999, border skirmishes continue along the Line of Control (LoC). Notable incidents include ¹:
- 2001 Indian Parliament attack:
A attack on the Indian Parliament, blamed on Pakistan-based groups.
- 2008 Mumbai attacks:
Coordinated shooting and bombing attacks across Mumbai, sparking tensions between India and Pakistan.
- 2019 Pulwama–Balakot escalation:
A suicide attack on Indian forces, claimed by a Pakistan-based group, led to Indian airstrikes on alleged militant camps in Pakistan.
- 2025 India-Pakistan conflict:
A brief armed conflict began on May 7, 2025, after India launched missile strikes on Pakistan, targeting militant groups. A ceasefire was agreed upon on May 10, 2025.