In a shocking development early Saturday morning, India fired air-to-surface missiles at three critical Pakistan Air Force (PAF) bases — Nur Khan, Muridke, and Shorkot. The attack marks a serious escalation in hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, prompting international concern over regional peace and security.
The missiles were launched under the cover of darkness, in what Pakistan has described as an unprovoked act of naked aggression. The move has once again spotlighted the fragile relationship between India and Pakistan, with both countries historically embroiled in disputes, particularly over Kashmir.
Pakistan’s Swift Response: No Casualties or Damage Reported
At an urgent press conference held shortly after the attacks, Director General ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry addressed the nation and the international media. He confirmed that all PAF assets remain intact and unharmed, despite the intensity of the missile strikes.
“Continuing its naked aggression, India some time back has fired air-to-surface missiles with its jets. PAF Nur Khan base, PAF Murid base and Shorkot base were targeted,” stated the DG ISPR.
This announcement aims to reassure the Pakistani public and allies that the country’s defense systems were prepared and successful in mitigating the potential devastation of the strikes.
What Were India’s Motives?
While India has yet to officially comment on the missile strikes, analysts speculate that the move may be an aggressive attempt to assert dominance or respond to an unconfirmed border skirmish. However, targeting military installations during peacetime crosses a dangerous threshold, and could potentially be a breach of international norms and treaties.
More concerning, DG ISPR disclosed that some missiles reportedly struck Afghan territory, hinting that India’s actions might not only endanger Pakistan but also threaten regional neighbors.
This expansion of conflict zones raises alarming questions:
- Is India trying to internationalize the conflict?
- What are the possible diplomatic and military repercussions?
DG ISPR Warns of a Strong Response
Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif issued a stark warning:
“Now you just wait for our response.”
The gravity of this statement reflects a clear message from Pakistan’s military leadership — a retaliatory move is imminent, and any further aggression could spiral into a larger, uncontrollable crisis. The world now watches as Islamabad weighs its options, and the global community urges restraint on both sides.
The Bigger Picture: A Fragile Peace Under Threat
These latest developments arrive amidst a historically tense geopolitical climate in South Asia. Any military miscalculation between India and Pakistan could have far-reaching implications, not only for the two nations involved but for the entire region — including Afghanistan, China, and the Middle East.
Calls for international diplomacy and de-escalation are growing louder. Peacekeeping bodies such as the United Nations, OIC, and SAARC may need to step in before the situation deteriorates further.
Final Thoughts
The fact that India fired missiles at PAF bases during peacetime signals a dangerous shift in regional dynamics. While Pakistan has confirmed that there were no casualties or damage, the provocation sets a tense and unpredictable stage. As citizens on both sides hope for peace, the military and governments must act wisely and avoid plunging the region into chaos.