Operation Sindoor: India’s Precision Strikes in Response to Pahalgam Attack

Operation Sindoor is the codename for a series of Indian military strikes launched on May 7, 2025, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The operation was initiated in response to a terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 28 civilians, predominantly Hindu tourists. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militant groups, prompting a retaliatory response.

Overview of Operation Sindoor

• Targets and Execution: The Indian Armed Forces conducted precision strikes on nine locations, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, Muzaffarabad, and Sialkot. These sites were identified as hubs for terrorist organizations such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The operation utilized advanced weaponry, including Rafale jets equipped with SCALP cruise missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, as well as Israeli-made Harpy drones for Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) missions.
• Casualties and Impact: Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh reported that the strikes resulted in the elimination of at least 100 terrorists. However, Pakistan contended that the attacks targeted civilian areas, including mosques and educational institutions, leading to 31 civilian deaths and 57 injuries.
• Retaliation and Escalation: In response, Pakistan claimed to have downed five Indian fighter jets and engaged in artillery exchanges along the Line of Control, causing additional casualties on both sides. India’s S-400 missile defense system reportedly intercepted multiple Pakistani missiles and drones aimed at Indian cities, including Amritsar and Jammu.

Significance of the Codename “Sindoor”

The term “Sindoor” refers to the red vermilion powder traditionally worn by married Hindu women. The choice of this codename is symbolic, possibly alluding to the widows created by the Pahalgam attack, where Hindu men were selectively targeted.

International Response

The escalation has raised global concerns, with leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, China, and Turkey urging both nations to exercise restraint and seek diplomatic solutions. The potential for a broader conflict, especially between two nuclear-armed countries, has heightened fears of regional instability.