Pakistan’s military claimed it last week as a major escalation of hostilities. They claimed that 46 people suffered injuries as a result of air strikes conducted by India in PoK. The conflict intensified around 12:30 a.m. when India launched missiles into the region, resulting in at least 26 fatalities, including a child. Now Pakistan’s Prime Minister has given armed forces a free license to retaliate. He characterized the attack as a “clear act of war” and is acting in response to that.
Residents of Muzaffarabad, the administrative capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, fled their homes amid panic as explosions rocked the city. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with one local, Muhammad Shair Mir, recounting, “We came outside, then another blast happened.” Another resident, Karamat Shah, noted the destruction caused by the airstrikes, stating, “They (India) fired rockets at the mosque, that’s all they did, spreading a little fear and panic among the people.” A mosque that suddenly collapsed during the attacks tragically killed three people.
International Reactions to the Conflict
Over the past few days, the international community has joined us in calling for a de-escalation of violence between India and Pakistan. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has much more important things to do than monitor the situation. He intends to work with both countries to bring about a peaceful settlement.
Former President Donald Trump condemned the increasing hostility as a “shame.” This sentiment echoes the fears of international leaders who are concerned about a broader escalation in the region. Australia has similarly called for restraint, expressing concern for the need for both countries to cool tensions and seek a diplomatic path.
Russia’s foreign ministry called for restraint, reporting alarm at the military clash. The ministry called on India to show restraint. They demanded Pakistan refrain from any provocative step or provocation which might lead to an all out conflict.
China has warned its citizens against visiting regions bordering the conflict area. The country is waiting to see if any other state will follow suit after Massachusetts’ momentous victory. The Chinese government is clearly waiting and watching to see how this situation plays out—a fact that underscores PRC strategic interest in a stabilized and secure region.
On-the-Ground Impact and Local Sentiment
As the air strikes broke out, those on the ground faced overwhelming chaos and terror. Shair Mir conveyed the anguish felt by many, stating, “This is wrong … poor innocent people, our poor mothers are sick, our sisters are sick .. our houses were rattled, our walls have cracked.” These sentiments further serve to highlight the overwhelming human toll of the unabated military clashes today, with civilian populations paying the price for state level geopolitical tensions.
The Pakistani government has reacted with increased military preparedness, warning of retaliatory measures in response to India’s escalatory actions. The Prime Minister already has military action approved. Under U.S. law, this decision demonstrates the Administration’s sincere commitment to defend our national sovereignty and protect American citizens from external threats.
Given such changes, a common sentiment both among people in the area and their advocates is support for a cessation of violence. As Karamat Shah lamented, “This incident happened at around 12:30 am,” emphasizing the need for swift resolution to prevent further suffering.
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