India-Pakistan Standoff: How India and Pakistan Came Close to War Before a Ceasefire

May 11, 2025 Komal Das

Operation Sindoor began at 1.05 am on May 7, targeting nine terror sites in Pakistan and POK. The 25-minute mission dismantled 21 terror camps of LeT, JeM, and Hizbul Mujahideen

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The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 killed 26 people, including tourists. India planned Operation Sindoor over 15 days to retaliate for the attack

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On April 11, Pakistan escalated tensions with drone and missile strikes on 26 locations, including airbases and civilian areas, violating international laws

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Indian fighter jets bombed terror launch pads near the LoC and airbases in Pakistan, neutralizing key threats during the counteroffensive

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India used S-400 Triumf and Akash systems to intercept Pakistan’s drones and missiles, including the Fatah-II aimed at Delhi, intercepted near Sirsa

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Rafale jets equipped with advanced missiles and bombs outperformed Pakistan’s F-16s. Both jets played crucial roles in the aerial battle

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China’s influence was visible in Pakistan’s use of HQ-9 air defense systems and PL-15 missiles, leading to a surge in Chinese defense stocks

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Despite economic struggles and reliance on bailouts, Pakistan secured \$1 billion during the conflict, sparking concerns about fund misuse for military purposes

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The conflict brought back memories of 1971, when India safeguarded landmarks like the Taj Mahal. Similar protective measures were implemented now

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After 100 hours of battle, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on May 11, announced by Trump. Pakistan violated the ceasefire hours later but faced strong retaliation

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