Following a dramatic escalation in hostilities between India and Pakistan, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the nation after Indian missile and air strikes targeted multiple sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The strikes, which India described as preemptive actions against “terrorist infrastructure” linked to a recent massacre of tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, marked the most severe military confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbors in over two decades368.
Key Points from the Address and Aftermath:
Condemnation of Indian Strikes:
In his televised address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif labeled the Indian attacks as “cowardly” and an “act of war.” He vowed that those killed in the strikes would be “avenged,” emphasizing Pakistan’s right and resolve to respond4568.
Civilian Casualties and Damage:
Pakistan reported that at least 26 civilians, including women and children, were killed and 46 wounded in the Indian missile strikes. The attacks hit six locations in Pakistani-administered Kashmir and Punjab province, with additional casualties from cross-border artillery fire. Pakistan strongly denied Indian claims that only militant sites were targeted, insisting that civilian areas and religious sites, such as the Subhan Mosque in Bahawalpur, were hit368.
Military Response and Claims:
Sharif stated that Pakistan’s military had been authorized to take “corresponding actions” in self-defense. Pakistani officials claimed to have shot down several Indian aircraft in retaliation, including advanced Rafale fighter jets-a claim not confirmed by India. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stressed that any counterstrikes would focus strictly on military targets to avoid civilian harm4567.
Appeal for Restraint and International Reaction:
While vowing retaliation, Sharif and other senior officials indicated a desire to avoid full-scale war, calling on the international community to intervene and urging the United Nations to take notice. The United States, China, and Russia all called for restraint, and a UN team was reportedly dispatched to Pakistani-administered Kashmir to assess the situation6.
Humanitarian Impact:
Residents in affected areas, such as Muzaffarabad (the capital of Pakistani-administered Kashmir), described scenes of panic and destruction, with many families fleeing their homes to escape further strikes3.
Summary Table: Key Claims and Responses
| Aspect | Pakistan’s Claim | India’s Position |
|---|---|---|
| Target of Strikes | Civilian areas, religious sites | Only “terrorist infrastructure” targeted |
| Casualties | 26 civilians killed, 46 wounded (Pakistan-administered areas) | 10 civilians killed, 48 injured (Indian side) |
| Downed Aircraft | 5 Indian jets, including Rafales (unconfirmed by India) | No confirmation; India silent on losses |
| Justification | Act of war, violation of sovereignty | Preemptive, based on intelligence of imminent attacks |
| Retaliation | Military authorized for “corresponding actions” | Urged restraint, claimed “measured” response |
Quote from PM Shehbaz Sharif:
“For the blatant mistake that India made last night, it will now have to pay the price.”
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif6
Outlook:
The situation remains highly volatile, with both countries on high alert and international actors urging de-escalation. Pakistanโs government has called for national unity and resilience, while India maintains that its actions were limited and necessary to prevent further attacks
