After years of what it terms as “unprovoked and repeated Indian aggression,” Pakistan has finally mounted a strong military response, signaling a significant shift in its strategic posture. This development comes amid heightened tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) and follows a series of deadly incidents that have escalated conflict dynamics between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
A Build-Up of Unchecked Aggression
For years, Pakistan has accused India of violating ceasefire agreements, targeting civilian populations in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and carrying out covert operations through its intelligence apparatus. These allegations intensified over the past year, particularly after several cross-border shelling incidents that claimed the lives of innocent civilians, including children. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation were met with continued aggression, prompting widespread public outcry in Pakistan and calls for a decisive response.
The situation became untenable following a particularly deadly episode in early May, when artillery shelling by Indian forces resulted in the deaths of several civilians in Neelum Valley. According to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the victims included women and children, pushing public sentiment to a breaking point.
Operation Bunyan un Marsoos: A Calculated Retaliation
In response, the Pakistan Army launched Operation Bunyan un Marsoos — a series of precision strikes using Al-Fateh surface-to-surface missiles. These missiles targeted key Indian military installations, including depots and airbases believed to be involved in previous hostile actions.
The ISPR confirmed that the strikes were conducted with a high degree of accuracy to avoid civilian casualties, focusing solely on military assets. This marked a turning point in Pakistan’s approach, which had historically exercised restraint even in the face of provocation.
According to Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of ISPR, “This is not an act of escalation but a message that Pakistan’s patience is not limitless. Our sovereignty and the safety of our citizens are paramount.”
A Message to India — and the World
By retaliating, Pakistan aimed to convey multiple messages: firstly, to India, that future provocations will be met with force; secondly, to its own people, that the nation stands united and will not remain passive in the face of threats; and thirdly, to the international community, that Pakistan has both the capacity and the resolve to respond to aggression while still advocating peace.
In his televised address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “Pakistan does not seek war, but nor will we be bullied. Our response is a reflection of our commitment to protect every inch of our land and every life of our people.”
Regional and Global Reactions
The military response has drawn mixed reactions globally. While some international observers have called for restraint on both sides, others have acknowledged Pakistan’s right to defend its territorial integrity. The United Nations and key diplomatic players such as China and the United States have urged both countries to return to the negotiating table and avoid further escalation.
India, meanwhile, downplayed the impact of the missile strikes but did not deny the loss of assets. The Indian government reiterated its stance of counter-terrorism operations but avoided confirming specific details of the retaliation.
Unity in Pakistan
The retaliatory strikes have significantly boosted morale in Pakistan. Rallies and demonstrations of support have emerged in cities across the country, with citizens praising the armed forces for their professionalism and restraint. Political leaders across party lines have expressed solidarity, setting aside differences to stand behind the military.
Civil society organizations also participated in national prayer events and candlelight vigils to remember those lost in earlier attacks, particularly the children and families affected by cross-border violence.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s decision to finally respond with military force against repeated Indian aggression underscores a critical shift in the regional balance. While it raises concerns about potential escalation, it also serves as a powerful reminder that unchecked hostility can no longer go unanswered.
In the delicate dance of diplomacy and defense, both nations must now consider whether they are prepared to continue down a path of confrontation—or seize this moment to re-engage in dialogue for the sake of regional stability and peace.
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