India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan, targeting what it described as terrorist infrastructure. The strikes followed a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 people. Pakistan reported civilian casualties from the Indian strikes and vowed retaliation.
Pakistani officials reported at least 26 civilian deaths and 46 injuries due to the Indian strikes. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the action as a 'cowardly attack' and a 'blatant act of war', stating his country would retaliate. Pakistan also claimed to have shot down Indian aircraft.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern and urged both countries to exercise maximum restraint. The situation represents a significant escalation in tensions between the two nuclear powers.
The escalation followed a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which severely damaged bilateral relations. Cross-border exchanges of fire had been occurring in the days leading up to the Indian airstrikes. India has also suspended a key water treaty with Pakistan and threatened to cut off water supplies.