India-Pakistan Tensions Surge as Cross-Border Strikes Spark Fears of Escalation

Tensions between India and Pakistan have reached dangerous new heights following India’s largest cross-border strikes in decades, targeting what New Delhi described as terrorist infrastructure deep inside Pakistani territory. The operation, carried out in response to a deadly April 22 attack on Indian tourists in Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of at least 31 people, according to Pakistan.
India claimed the attack was aimed at eliminating militant strongholds linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, a U.S.-designated terror group. Indian officials stated the strikes were “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” avoiding Pakistani military assets and civilian infrastructure. However, one of the deadliest strikes reportedly hit a mosque in Ahmedpur East, killing 14, including family members of Jaish-e-Mohammed’s leader, Masood Azhar.
Pakistan swiftly condemned the strikes as “an act of war,” vowing to respond at a time and place of its choosing. Officials described the operation as a blatant violation of sovereignty and accused India of pursuing a dangerous agenda in the region.
Strikes also targeted Pakistani-held Kashmir, including civilian areas near militant-affiliated sites. The attack on a hydropower facility sparked alarm, especially after India suspended a critical water-sharing treaty last month. The move has been interpreted by Islamabad as a direct threat to Pakistan’s national security.
Meanwhile, India conducted emergency drills nationwide, simulating conflict scenarios in preparation for further escalation. Despite calls for de-escalation, experts warn that the pressure on both governments—especially Pakistan—to respond could trigger a broader conflict if diplomatic efforts fail.
International concern is mounting. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both sides to show restraint, emphasizing that the world “cannot afford” another military conflict between the two nuclear powers. U.S. officials echoed the sentiment, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Trump expressing hope for a swift de-escalation.