Tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan have dangerously escalated after both nations accused each other of carrying out drone strikes, artillery shelling, and ceasefire violations across the disputed Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir.
What began as a retaliatory strike by India on alleged “terrorist camps” in Pakistan earlier this week has now turned into the most violent conflict between the two countries in over 25 years. The air is thick with fear as drones buzz overhead, missiles crash into villages, and civilians scramble for safety on both sides of the border.
Indian officials said they repelled drone attacks and artillery fire from Pakistani forces on Friday, claiming the military gave a “befitting reply” and will crush any hostile action with full force. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s authorities accused India of killing five civilians—including an infant—during overnight shelling in Pakistani-administered Kashmir, injuring nearly 30 others.
The conflict, which has already claimed dozens of lives, is causing panic across the region. In Indian cities like Amritsar, sirens wailed for hours, power was cut, and locals were urged to remain indoors. Schools and tourist sites have been shut down, and the country’s beloved IPL T20 cricket tournament has been suspended after a match was interrupted mid-game by a blackout.
Several areas along India’s western border, including Rajasthan and Gujarat, are on high alert. Evacuation measures have been activated, with buses on standby and residents urged to move further inland. Ports and shipyards across India have also been told to tighten security amid fears of further escalation.
The border town of Uri in Indian Kashmir witnessed some of the worst shelling, with multiple homes destroyed and casualties reported. “The explosions were so loud they shook our windows. It felt like they were going to shatter,” said Ansab, a student in Jammu. The blasts have left towns cloaked in a haze of smoke and fear.
On the diplomatic front, the international community is calling for restraint. The United States, China, and Saudi Arabia have all urged both countries to step back from the brink. U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated, “We want this to de-escalate quickly. We can’t control these countries, though.” Saudi Foreign Affairs Minister Adel Al-Jubeir, after visiting India, is now in Pakistan to mediate.
The Kashmir conflict has long been a flashpoint between the two countries, who have fought three wars since gaining independence in 1947—two of them over this contested region. With the situation spiraling fast, fears are growing that any misstep could lead to a full-blown war with devastating consequences for South Asia and the world.
