India-Pakistan Conflict Escalates Amid Cross-Border Strikes and Misinformation

RANCHI, May 9, 2025 — Tensions between India and Pakistan have intensified following a series of cross-border military actions and conflicting narratives from both nations.

Background: Pahalgam Attack and Operation Sindoor

The current escalation began after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militant groups, prompting the launch of “Operation Sindoor” on May 7. This operation involved precision strikes targeting nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Muzaffarabad, aimed at dismantling infrastructure of groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

India reported the use of Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs during the 23-minute operation. Pakistan, however, claimed that the strikes resulted in 31 civilian casualties, including women and children.

Retaliation and Ongoing Military Engagements

In response, Pakistan asserted that it had downed five Indian fighter jets, including Rafale and Su-30 models, and intercepted multiple drones. India has not confirmed these losses. Subsequent reports indicate that Pakistan launched drone and missile attacks targeting Indian military installations in Jammu, Udhampur, and Pathankot, leading to blackouts and civilian panic.

Both nations have engaged in artillery exchanges along the Line of Control (LoC), with civilian areas in regions like Poonch and Lahore experiencing shelling and explosions.

Information Warfare and Fact-Checking Efforts

Amid the military confrontations, both India and Pakistan have accused each other of disseminating misinformation. India’s Press Information Bureau (PIB) has labeled certain Pakistani reports as “propaganda,” specifically denying claims about the downing of Indian Rafale jets and attacks on the Srinagar airbase.

Conversely, Pakistan has disputed India’s allegations of initiating attacks, suggesting that some incidents, such as the reported strike on Amritsar, were either misrepresented or self-inflicted errors by Indian forces.

International Reactions and Humanitarian Concerns

The international community has expressed alarm over the escalating conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The United States and the European Union have called for immediate de-escalation and a return to diplomatic dialogue.

On the humanitarian front, the conflict has led to significant civilian displacement, with thousands fleeing border areas. Major cities like Jammu and Lahore have experienced disruptions, including power outages and flight suspensions. The situation remains volatile, with both nations maintaining high alert levels.