The Bulletin May 7, 2025
The rundown: Pakistan has issued a warning to India, demanding an end to its military operations or risk further escalation following Indian airstrikes under 'Operation Sindoor' in response to the killing of tourists in Kashmir. More on the escalating tensions.
Why it matters: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif said Pakistan is "willing to wrap up these things" if India halts its actions, but cautioned, "If India attacks, we'll respond." The ultimatum was delivered alongside a formal protest lodged with India's Charge-d'Affaires in Islamabad. Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors ratcheted up after gunmen massacred 26 people, mostly Indian tourists, in Indian-controlled Kashmir last month. India responded by striking nine targets inside Pakistan, saying they were used to plan the attack. Pakistan has denied this, stating Indian strikes hit civilian areas and violated its sovereignty.
Read more in-depth coverage:
India Hit 3 Pakistan-Based Militant Groups, Intelligence Document Says
TL/DR: India launched airstrikes on Wednesday targeting alleged terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
What happens now? Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to deliver a national address outlining Pakistan's response strategy. The situation remains volatile, with any further military action likely to trigger a wider crisis.
Deeper reading Pakistan Issues India Ultimatum Following Airstrikes
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