The Pakistan authorities on Friday, May 9, 2025, denied launching fresh drone and artillery attacks on India, but has refused to ease rising tensions.
India claimed it repelled overnight Pakistani drone strikes and shelling across Kashmir and Punjab, amid escalating cross-border violence.
Pakistan’s foreign ministry accused India of bringing both nations “closer to a major conflict” after deadly airstrikes earlier this week.
The violence follows an attack last month in Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 tourists. India blames Pakistan-based militants.
New Delhi responded with airstrikes on “terror camps”, killing over 20 Pakistani civilians, according to Islamabad.
Pakistan’s military spokesperson said India must “take a hit” and warned that retaliation would come at Pakistan’s timing.
The Indian army said it “repulsed” waves of drone and artillery attacks overnight and issued a “befitting reply.”
On Friday, Indian officials reported drone activity in Jammu, Samba, and Punjab, escalating military alerts.
Pakistan denied responsibility for new strikes, despite claims from India and reported casualties in Pakistani-controlled territory.
At least 50 people have died in three days of violence, most during India’s Wednesday airstrikes inside Pakistan.
Pakistani authorities said five civilians, including a toddler, were killed overnight in shelling near the Line of Control (LoC).
Indian officials reported one death and two injuries from retaliatory fire in Jammu.
Pakistan’s military claimed it shot down 77 Indian drones, displaying debris in several cities.
India countered that 300–400 drones crossed into its territory, and accused Pakistan of hitting three military bases.
Pakistan claimed five Indian fighter jets were downed; India has not confirmed but acknowledged three jets crashed.
Independent verification remains difficult, with both sides trading blame in an intensifying information war.
Civilians on both sides voiced anger and nationalism, with many supporting military retaliation.
Schools closed across Kashmir and Punjab, affecting millions, as fears of all-out war rise.
International airlines rerouted or canceled flights due to the risk of military action along the border.
India closed 24 airports, with limited civilian flight operations expected to resume Saturday, May 10.
The IPL cricket tournament was suspended after explosions near Dharamsala, close to the conflict zone.
The Pakistan Super League was relocated to the UAE after an Indian drone strike near Rawalpindi stadium.
US Vice President JD Vance called for restraint but said Washington would not intervene in the conflict.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Araghchi visited both India and Pakistan in efforts to mediate peace.
International diplomats continue urging both sides to avoid further escalation and protect civilians.
Amnesty International warned both governments to uphold humanitarian law and limit civilian casualties.
The International Crisis Group said global powers appear indifferent, despite clear signs of growing war risk.
Post Views: 26
