Tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan surged after India accused Pakistan of launching drone and missile attacks on three military bases and multiple border regions.

The Indian Ministry of Defence reported that eight missiles targeted Jammu’s Satwari, Samba, Ranbir Singh Pura, and Arnia sectors, alongside Pathankot in Punjab and Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir. Indian air defense systems, including the S-400, intercepted the missiles, neutralizing threats without casualties.

Late Thursday night, residents in Jammu reported drones and explosions, triggering a city-wide blackout to counter potential attacks. Similar blackouts were enforced in Amritsar, Jalandhar, and parts of Rajasthan, with sirens blaring. Indian authorities claimed Pakistan attempted to strike 15 locations, including Srinagar, Amritsar, and Jaisalmer, using drones and missiles. Debris recovery is underway in affected areas.

Islamabad dismissed India’s claims as “fabricated” and “politically motivated,” labeling them a “phantom narrative” to justify aggression. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry argued that modern missiles leave digital footprints, making India’s accusations implausible. Pakistani officials claimed India launched 29 drones into Pakistan, with 25 shot down, and alleged Indian jets were downed using Chinese-made aircraft, though India has not confirmed these claims.

Heavy shelling erupted along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara and Uri on Friday morning, following ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Poonch and Rajouri. Posts on X reported damage to civilian structures, including a temple, gurudwara, and mosque in Poonch. Both nations accused each other of targeting civilian areas, escalating the conflict further.

Global powers urged de-escalation. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, emphasizing direct dialogue. Turkey, Iran, and Gulf nations offered mediation, while China, Russia, and the EU called for restraint. President Donald Trump expressed hope that the conflict would not spiral into a broader war, offering U.S. assistance if needed.

The clash follows India’s Operation Sindoor, a missile strike on alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan, retaliating for a April 22 attack in Pahalgam that killed 26. Pakistan denies involvement and demands an international probe. The ongoing exchanges risk further destabilizing the region, with both nations facing domestic pressure to respond forcefully.

Read more: Pakistan Missile Attack Shakes India Border Cities

As diplomatic channels remain open but strained, the international community watches closely, fearing the consequences of a prolonged conflict between two nuclear powers. Updates will follow as the situation evolves.