ISLAMABAD — Pakistan has launched a counter-strike following a missile attack by Indian forces that killed at least three Pakistani civilians and injured 12 others, according to a statement from Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry.
The Indian assault, which involved missile fire from within Indian airspace, targeted three locations in Pakistan — Bahawalpur, Muzaffarabad, and Kotli. The attack struck civilian areas, with sources confirming that the casualties were all unarmed and innocent residents.
Following the attack, Pakistan’s armed forces initiated a decisive and immediate response. “The Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Army are delivering a strong and fitting reply to this cowardly aggression,” security officials stated, stressing that the loss of innocent lives will be avenged.
Images and preliminary reports from the affected areas show damage to residential zones, confirming that civilians bore the brunt of the strike. The military leadership reiterated that every drop of innocent blood spilled would be answered.
“All of our air force jets are airborne,” said Lt Gen Chaudhry, strongly condemning the Indian attack. “This is a shameful and cowardly act carried out from across the border. They were not allowed to breach our airspace.”
He further warned, “Pakistan will respond to this provocation at a time and place of its choosing. This aggression will not go unanswered.”
Explosions were reported shortly after midnight in the mountainous region near Muzaffarabad in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, plunging the area into a blackout, according to eyewitness accounts. Emergency teams were dispatched, and damage assessments are ongoing.
Military officials stated, “Any temporary satisfaction India may feel after this cowardly act will soon be replaced with lasting regret.”
The escalation comes in the wake of rising tensions following the April 22 attack in Indian-occupied Pahalgam, which left 26 Hindu tourists dead. India has accused Pakistan of involvement without providing evidence. Pakistan has denied any role and has offered to cooperate in a neutral, independent investigation.
With both nuclear-armed neighbors now on high alert, the situation remains volatile as international observers call for immediate de-escalation and a return to diplomatic engagement.
