In a bold move of retaliation for the deadly Pahalgam attack, India launched a series of missile strikes across Pakistan. The DG ISPR confirmed that two Pakistani civilians were dead and 12 others were injured as a result of the explosions that took place in cities such as Kotli, Muzaffarabad, Bahawalpur, and Muridke.
The missile strikes were launched from India’s airspace during the dead of night, and Pakistan’s DG ISPR described the attack as a cowardly act. In Bahawalpur, a powerful explosion illuminated the sky before the blast, and sources reported explosions in Muzaffarabad as well. Eyewitnesses in Muzaffarabad mentioned a complete blackout, which added to the panic during the missile strikes.
Pakistan’s Immediate Response: Airspace Closed and Flight Suspensions
In response to India’s strikes, Pakistan has closed its airspace, suspending all flight operations, including those from major airports in Islamabad and Lahore. Aviation sources have confirmed that a 48-hour airspace closure has been imposed, leading to the cancellation of more than 25 flights to international destinations including Qatar, Dubai, and Bahrain.
Pakistan’s military has also indicated that the country will retaliate at an appropriate time, ensuring that India’s “temporary euphoria” will turn into lasting consequences. The DG ISPR emphasized that Pakistan will not tolerate any further provocations and will continue to defend its sovereignty with resolve.