India launched an operation targeting nine terrorist camps, deploying 24 missiles that reportedly resulted in the deaths of 70 terrorists in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation, coordinated by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force under the codename Operation Sindoor, occurred between 1:05 AM and 1:30 AM on May 7.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Mithri, at a press briefing in New Delhi, described the operation as a “measured and proportionate” response to the terrorist attacks on April 22 in Pahargam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, including that of a Nepali national, and left many injured.
Colonel Sofia Kureshi remarked that the operation indicated a shift in strategy. She noted that for three decades, Pakistan has been establishing terrorist infrastructure, including camps within POJK and recruitment and training centers. The aim was to dismantle these facilities to mitigate future threats.
“Our intelligence indicated that more attacks were imminent, so we took action early this morning, exercising our right to combat cross-border terrorism. Our actions were measured and responsible,” she explained.
Strikes and locations
The missile strikes targeted locations in Muzafarabad, Kotori, Bahawalpur, Rawarakot, Chakwari, Bimbar, Neelam Valley, Jelam, and Chakwar—areas long associated with terrorist camps. Intelligence suggested ties with groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JEM), known for various attacks in India.
Out of the nine targeted sites, five were located in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and four in mainland Pakistan. Notably, Bahawalpur is a recognized base for JEM, while Muzaffarabad and Bhimber have been identified by Indian security agencies as logistical hubs for incursions into Kashmir.
The government stated that all strike objectives were met. UAV reconnaissance confirmed the destruction of command centers, training camps, and armories, although no Pakistani military facilities were hit.
Damage Scale
Over 70 terrorists were reported killed, with more than 60 injured. The operation utilized a mix of ground-launched missiles, and real-time drone surveillance confirmed target destruction with minimal civilian casualties, according to government sources.
Precision-guided munitions, such as laser-designated missiles and satellite-guided glide bombs, were employed to enhance strike accuracy and minimize collateral damage. Missiles were launched in synchronized patterns from both air and land platforms, ensuring the simultaneous neutralization of terror camps.
