Live Updates: India–Pakistan Tensions Escalate Amid Border Clashes

India’s Air Marshal A.K. Bharti has declined to confirm whether Indian Rafale fighter jets were among the assets lost during recent hostilities with Pakistan, stating that such information could be strategically sensitive.

Speaking during the Indian Directorate General of Military Operations (D.G MO) briefing, Air Marshal Bharti responded to a reporter’s question about reports of Rafale jets being shot down by Pakistan.

“I do not want to comment on our losses — that might give our opponent an advantage,” Bharti said, notably choosing not to deny the claim outright.

Air Marshal A.K. Bharti refused to confirm or deny if Rafale jets were shot down by Pakistan, saying at the D.G MO briefing that disclosing losses could give the opponent an advantage.#India #Pakistan #Rafale pic.twitter.com/unQadOwRc2

— BPI News (@BPINewsOrg) May 11, 2025

The remark has drawn attention, as it is the first time an Indian defence official has been pressed publicly on the alleged downing of Rafale jets during the recent conflict.

Pakistan has previously claimed it shot down multiple Indian aircraft during retaliatory strikes, including advanced Rafale jets. India has not officially confirmed the loss of any such aircraft.

The Rafale, a French-built multirole fighter jet, is considered one of the most advanced in India’s air fleet and was procured in recent years to modernise its air force.

Pope Leo XIV has used his first Sunday address to welcome the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, and to issue a heartfelt appeal for peace in global conflict zones including Ukraine and Gaza.

Addressing thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the newly elected pontiff described the ceasefire between the South Asian neighbours as a “positive step” and expressed hope that continued negotiations would lead to a lasting agreement.

“I welcomed the announcement of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan and I hope that through negotiations we can reach a lasting agreement,” he said.

Turning to other global crises, Pope Leo XIV called for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, urging the international community to ensure humanitarian aid reaches “the exhausted population” in the territory.

He also appealed for an end to the war in Ukraine, emphasising the need for dialogue and reconciliation in all conflict zones.

The recent escalation between India and Pakistan has renewed global attention on the military capabilities of the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Both countries maintain large and well-equipped armed forces, but key differences exist in size, spending, and resources.

According to Global Firepower’s 2025 military strength rankings, India is listed as the 4th strongest military power in the world, while Pakistan ranks 12th.

Military Spending:
India is the fifth-largest military spender globally, allocating $86 billion to defence in 2024—equivalent to 2.3% of its GDP, as reported by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
In comparison, Pakistan spent $10.2 billion on its military in the same year, which amounted to 2.7% of its GDP.

Personnel:

• India: 5,137,550 total military personnel

• Pakistan: 1,704,000 total military personnel

Air Power:

• India: 2,229 military aircraft

• Pakistan: 1,399 military aircraft

Land Forces:

• India: 3,151 combat tanks

• Pakistan: 1,839 combat tanks

Despite India’s overwhelming numerical advantage, Pakistan maintains strong defensive capabilities and a proven missile programme, while both countries possess nuclear arsenals.

The ceasefire between India and Pakistan remains intact as of Sunday, despite initial claims by New Delhi that Pakistan violated the agreement within hours of its implementation on Saturday evening.

Explosions were reported in Jammu, Srinagar, and other areas shortly after the ceasefire came into effect, but no further hostilities have been reported since the early hours of Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has convened a high-level meeting to assess the situation. However, he is facing growing pressure from opposition parties, who are demanding greater transparency over the ceasefire process and the involvement of international actors.

In particular, opposition leaders are questioning comments made by US President Donald Trump, who publicly claimed credit for mediating the ceasefire. They are asking whether the Indian government has shifted from its long-standing position that all issues with Pakistan should be resolved bilaterally—without third-party intervention.

Several opposition parties have called for an all-party meeting chaired by Prime Minister Modi to clarify India’s current diplomatic position and detail the nature of the ceasefire agreement.

Officials from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are reportedly holding internal discussions on the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL), following the announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

According to AFP, key BCCI figures have begun exploring options for restarting the tournament, which was suspended last week amid escalating military tensions.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia told Cricbuzz that the board is “closely monitoring the evolving situation” and would make a final decision “after consulting all stakeholders of IPL and the concerned government authorities”.

Rajeev Shukla, Vice President of the BCCI, confirmed to Indian media that an official meeting is scheduled for Sunday to decide on the league's future course of action.

The IPL, which is India’s most prominent sporting event and one of the world’s richest cricket tournaments, was halfway through its season when operations were halted.

With the ceasefire now in effect and airspace restrictions easing, BCCI sources suggest the league could be restarted within days, pending security clearances.

Colleges and universities across Punjab are set to reopen tomorrow, with all academic and administrative activities resuming, the provincial Higher Education Department confirmed in a new notification.

According to the circular issued by the department, both public and private sector institutions will resume operations from Monday, 12 May 2025.

“Pursuant to the approval of the competent authority, it is hereby notified that all the public and private sector colleges/universities shall resume their academic and administrative activities from 12-05-2025 (Monday),” the statement reads.

Additionally, all examinations under the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, as well as those scheduled by universities and colleges, will proceed according to their previously notified timetables.

The notification added that revised dates for any postponed theory or practical exams will be announced by the relevant authorities in due course.

As India and Pakistan settle into a fragile ceasefire after days of deadly cross-border exchanges, military analysts and regional experts have pointed to nuclear deterrence as a major factor preventing the conflict from spiralling into a full-scale war.

Despite missile strikes, drone attacks, troop mobilisations and aerial dogfights, neither side crossed certain strategic thresholds. Analysts suggest this was in large part due to the awareness of mutual nuclear capability and the catastrophic risks of escalation.

“The reality is that both sides understand what’s at stake, If it weren’t for Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, we may have seen a much deeper incursion from India.”

The concept of nuclear deterrence—whereby the threat of severe retaliation prevents either side from initiating total war—has been a consistent backdrop to India-Pakistan tensions since both declared nuclear weapons status in 1998.

Though conventional military actions unfolded rapidly over the past two weeks, diplomatic pressure and the spectre of nuclear conflict are believed to have driven momentum towards the ceasefire, announced on 10 May.

The Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan remains suspended despite the ceasefire reached on Saturday, according to four Indian government sources cited by Reuters.

The 1960 treaty, brokered by the World Bank, governs the allocation and management of water from the Indus River system, which flows through both nations. It has long been considered a rare example of sustained cooperation between the two rivals—even during past periods of tension.

However, India withdrew from the treaty last month following the deadly 22 April attack on Hindu tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 people. New Delhi blamed Pakistan-based militants for the assault, an accusation Islamabad denies.

Although both sides agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire on 10 May following US-led mediation there is currently no indication that water-sharing arrangements under the treaty will resume.

The India-Pakistan ceasefire announced on 10 May came after nearly three weeks of mounting tensions, deadly military action, and rapid diplomatic fallout. Below is a timeline outlining key events that led to one of the region’s most dangerous standoffs in recent years:

22 April – Gunmen kill 26 Hindu tourists in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir. India blames Pakistan-backed militants. Islamabad denies any involvement.

23 April – India downgrades diplomatic ties, shuts the Wagah-Attari border, and suspends the Indus Waters Treaty.

24 April – Both countries cancel visa arrangements. Pakistan closes its airspace to Indian-operated airlines.

25 April – India and Pakistan exchange heavy fire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir. Night-time clashes continue for several days.

3 May – Pakistan test-fires a ballistic missile with a 450km range. India bars Pakistani-flagged ships and restricts port access to vessels tied to Pakistan.

7 May – India launches missile strikes on Pakistan, calling them a pre-emptive move against “terrorist infrastructure”. Pakistan reports 31 killed and vows retaliation.

8 May – India deploys armed drones into Pakistan after alleging attacks on its air defence systems.

9 May – India suspends the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket tournament for one week. The G7 urges restraint.

10 May – Pakistan accuses India of firing missiles at airbases in Rawalpindi and elsewhere. Retaliatory strikes follow. Explosions are heard across Indian-administered Kashmir.

Later that day, US President Donald Trump posts on Truth Social that India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire. Both governments confirm the deal within hours.

As calm returns, Pakistan reopens its airspace and both sides agree to hold further talks to maintain the truce.

People across Pakistan have welcomed the ceasefire agreement with India with scenes of joy, chants of “long live Pakistan,” and expressions of profound relief after days of heightened military tension.

In cities including Lahore, Islamabad, and Muzaffarabad, residents gathered to mark what many described as a moment of national pride and a hopeful step toward lasting peace.

“This is a big day for Pakistan,” said Mohammad Fateh, a young man in Lahore. “Our forces responded with strength, and India had no choice but to agree to a ceasefire.”

In the capital Islamabad, Zubaida Bibi, a 45-year-old housewife, expressed happiness at the restoration of calm: “War brings nothing but suffering. We are happy that calm is returning. It feels like Eid to me. We have won.”

In Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir and often directly affected by cross-border violence, residents expressed cautious optimism. “For us, peace means survival,” said Zulfikar Ali. “We’ve suffered enough. I’m glad that both Pakistan and India have made a sensible decision.”

The ceasefire, which took effect at 17:00 IST on Saturday, was brokered through international mediation led by the United States, with involvement from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others.

Pakistan has fully reopened its airspace for all types of flight operations, the Pakistan Airport Authority (APA) confirmed in a statement on Saturday evening.

According to APA, all airports across the country are now available for standard domestic and international flight activity. The move follows the ceasefire agreement announced earlier in the day between Pakistan and India, bringing an end to four days of intense cross-border hostilities.

"All airports in the country are available for normal flight operations," the APA said, marking a full return to civil aviation activity after a temporary shutdown prompted by military operations and security concerns.

Pakistan had previously closed its airspace amid fears of escalation following missile strikes and aerial clashes with India. The restoration of flight services signals a return to relative calm as diplomatic efforts continue.

India had also shut 32 airports and key airspace segments during the conflict but is expected to issue updated aviation guidance following the ceasefire.

After four days of intense military escalation, India and Pakistan have officially agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire. The announcement follows backchannel diplomatic efforts involving dozens of countries, culminating in a breakthrough led by the United States.

Former US President Donald Trump was first to signal the ceasefire on Truth Social, stating that Washington had successfully mediated the talks.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the agreement, telling Pakistani media that "three dozen countries" took part in the diplomatic effort, including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri followed with a public statement, confirming that India had agreed to "stop all firing and military action on land, air and sea". He added that the ceasefire officially took effect from 17:00 IST (12:30 BST).

India and Pakistan are scheduled to hold follow-up talks on Monday to discuss long-term mechanisms for preventing further conflict.

A top Indian official has been killed in Pakistani shelling on Rajouri town in Indian-administered Kashmir, marking one of the most high-profile fatalities since hostilities between India and Pakistan escalated.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Raj Kumar Thapa was reportedly inside his residence when it was struck by shellfire. Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed the death in a post on X, calling it a “devastating loss”.

“Today, the residence of the officer was hit by Pak shelling as they targeted Rajouri town killing our Additional District Development Commissioner Sh Raj Kumar Thappa. I’ve no words to express my shock and sadness at this terrible loss of life,” Abdullah wrote.

China has issued a strong diplomatic appeal urging India and Pakistan to de-escalate their ongoing military confrontation and return to peaceful political dialogue.

In a statement cited by AFP, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said:
“We strongly call on both India and Pakistan to give priority to peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, return to the track of political settlement through peaceful means and avoid taking actions that further escalate tensions.”

The remarks follow an intensification in hostilities, including cross-border missile strikes, major troop deployments, cyber warfare claims, and civilian casualties on both sides.

Pakistan’s army has claimed responsibility for a cyber attack that it says disrupted Indian military satellite operations and targeted critical government infrastructure, including email servers and online portals.

According to Pakistani military and security sources, the operation “successfully jammed” several of India’s military-grade navigation and communication satellites, allegedly impacting defence coordination capabilities.

The cyber attack also reportedly targeted Indian government email systems and administrative websites, though no specific breaches or data losses have been publicly confirmed.

India has not yet issued an official response to the claims. There has been no independent verification of the alleged disruption.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken directly with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, and India’s Minister of External Affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

According to an official handout, Rubio urged both sides to “find ways to de-escalate the situation” and avoid further military confrontation.

During his call with General Munir, Rubio offered the United States’ assistance in initiating “constructive talks in order to avoid future conflicts.”

He delivered a similar message to Foreign Minister Jaishankar, stressing the importance of restraint and diplomacy in reducing tensions that have surged since recent cross-border strikes and growing military deployments.

The US joins the G7, China, Iran, and Saudi Arabia in pressing for de-escalation amid growing concern over the worsening situation in Kashmir and along the India-Pakistan border.

India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued a major operational directive, announcing the temporary closure of 32 airports across the northern and western regions of the country for all civil flight operations.

The closure, effective from 9 May to 15 May 2025, was announced via a series of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). While officially described as due to “operational reasons,” the move comes amid escalating military tensions with Pakistan.

Airports affected by the suspension span several key Indian states and union territories, including Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, and Indian-administered Kashmir.

Airports listed in the NOTAM include:
Adhampur, Ambala, Amritsar, Awantipur, Bathinda, Bhuj, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Halwara, Hindon, Jaisalmer, Jammu, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Kandla, Kangra, Keshod, Kishangarh, Kullu Manali, Leh, Ludhiana, Mundra, Naliya, Pathankot, Patiala, Porbandar, Rajkot, Sarsawa, Shimla, Srinagar, Thoise, and Uttarlai.

In addition, 25 Air Traffic Service (ATS) route segments within the Delhi and Mumbai Flight Information Regions (FIRs) have been suspended from surface level to unlimited altitude under NOTAM G0555/25. This is also in effect until 0529 IST on 15 May 2025.

Airlines and flight operators have been directed to reroute and coordinate with ATC for alternative paths. Authorities have said the measure is temporary and is being coordinated to ensure aviation safety and minimise disruption.

Intense fighting has been reported near the disputed border around the Pakistani city of Sialkot, with officials and eyewitnesses describing heavy exchanges in the area over the past 48 hours.

Pakistan's military has claimed it has downed at least 77 drones during this period, suggesting a significant increase in aerial surveillance and potential attack attempts. The claim has not yet been independently verified.

Pakistan’s military, as reported by state media and confirmed by security sources, claims to have struck multiple high-value Indian military targets during Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, its ongoing retaliatory campaign amid escalating hostilities with India.

The most significant claim involves a cyberattack that reportedly disabled 70% of India’s national power grid. No official confirmation has been provided by Indian authorities, but several states are experiencing reported outages.

According to the list released, Pakistan also claims to have destroyed India’s S-400 air defence system in Adampur using JF-17 Thunder jets armed with hypersonic missiles.

Here are the reported targets:

• India’s national power grid: 70% disabled in a cyberattack

• S-400 system in Adampur: Destroyed using hypersonic missiles

• Military intelligence training centre in Rajouri (IOK): Alleged hub for orchestrating attacks in Pakistan

• “KG Top” Brigade Headquarters

• Uri field supply depot

• Artillery gun position in Dehrangyari

• BrahMos missile storage site in Beas

• Akhnoor aviation base

• Airfields in Adampur, Udhampur, Pathankot, Suratgarh, Sirsa, and Bhatinda

China has issued a strong call for restraint to both India and Pakistan as the two nuclear-armed neighbours remain locked in their worst military confrontation in decades.

According to a report by AFP, Beijing has “strongly” urged both sides to avoid any further escalation, joining a growing chorus of international powers including the United States and the G7 in appealing for calm.

The Chinese foreign ministry has not released a detailed statement yet, but the reported remarks reflect deepening global concern about the possibility of a broader conflict.

The call comes as cross-border missile strikes, large-scale troop mobilisations, and airspace shutdowns continue. India and Pakistan have both reported attacks on military infrastructure, with casualties mounting on each side.

Reports of explosions have emerged from multiple locations along the Line of Control (LoC) and further into both Indian-administered Kashmir and Pakistan, as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate.

BBC reporters confirmed hearing loud blasts early Saturday morning in Srinagar and Jammu—two major cities in Indian-administered Kashmir. The exact source of the explosions remains unclear.

Local Indian media also reported explosions in Udhampur and Pathankot, areas known to house Indian defence infrastructure. Pakistan had previously claimed to have targeted both locations during its retaliatory military operation, Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos.

On the Pakistani side, officials claim that India fired missiles at military airbases in Rawalpindi, Chakwal, and Shorkot earlier in the night. Rawalpindi, just 10km from Islamabad, is home to Pakistan’s military headquarters.

India has yet to comment on Pakistan’s claims regarding the cross-border missile strikes. No official casualty reports have been confirmed at this time.

At least five people have been killed in attacks by Pakistani forces on India’s Jammu region on Saturday morning, according to police in Indian-administered Kashmir. The report was cited by Reuters as part of ongoing coverage of the deepening military conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Details on the identities of the victims or the precise locations affected have not yet been released. It is also unclear whether the casualties were civilian or military.

The latest fatalities add to the growing toll since the escalation began earlier this week, with at least 48 deaths reported on both sides of the Line of Control—though many figures remain unverified.

The conflict has escalated sharply since India launched strikes in Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 Hindu tourists. Pakistan has since launched Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos in retaliation, targeting Indian military infrastructure.

Both sides have imposed airspace restrictions and ramped up troop mobilisation, while global powers including the G7 and the US have urged restraint.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on India and Pakistan to pursue de-escalation as military tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours continue to rise.

In a statement issued by the US State Department, Rubio urged both sides to avoid further conflict and offered Washington’s assistance in initiating constructive dialogue.

The department also confirmed that Rubio held a direct conversation with Pakistan’s army chief earlier on Saturday to discuss the situation. The call is part of ongoing US diplomatic efforts to defuse the crisis following cross-border airstrikes, heavy troop mobilisation, and widespread airspace closures.

Reuters reported that Rubio expressed serious concern about the risk of regional instability and reiterated the United States’ willingness to support de-escalatory measures.

The India-Pakistan conflict has reached its most dangerous point in nearly 30 years, with Pakistan launching a major retaliatory military operation early Saturday morning.

The operation, named Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos—Arabic for “Wall of Lead”—was announced by Pakistan’s military after India reportedly fired missiles from fighter jets at three Pakistani airbases, including one just 10km from Islamabad.

Among the Indian targets struck by Pakistan were the Pathankot military airfield in Punjab and the Udhampur air force base in Indian-administered Kashmir. Loud explosions were reported in both areas. Pakistan also claims to have targeted a missile storage site in northern India.

One of the initial Indian strikes hit Nur Khan airbase in Rawalpindi, near Pakistan’s military headquarters. Residents reported widespread panic as explosions rocked the densely populated area, prompting Pakistan to shut down its airspace.

Following the overnight escalation, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a meeting of the National Command Authority—the civilian-military body responsible for high-level security decisions, including those involving nuclear assets.

India’s government has yet to issue an official comment, but its military confirmed it is mobilising additional forces to the border and has activated 14 Territorial Army battalions for deployment until February 2028.

Since Wednesday, when India launched what it said were strikes on militant targets in Pakistan, at least 48 people have reportedly been killed on both sides, though figures have not been independently verified.

The conflict flared after a deadly attack last month in Indian-administered Kashmir killed 26 Hindu tourists. India has blamed Pakistan-based militants for the assault—an accusation Islamabad denies.

The G7 has issued a strong appeal for “immediate de-escalation” and “maximum restraint”, warning that any further military escalation poses a serious threat to regional stability.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called a meeting of the National Command Authority (NCA), the body responsible for overseeing the country’s nuclear arsenal, as tensions with India continue to escalate rapidly.

The announcement comes as Pakistan’s military expands its counter-offensive under Operation Bunyanun Marsoos, targeting Indian military infrastructure allegedly linked to earlier missile attacks on Pakistani territory.

In statements to the media, the Pakistani military claimed it has struck multiple Indian positions, including air bases used to launch attacks, a field supply depot, a missile battery site, artillery gun positions, and a brigade headquarters.

Using phrases like “an eye for an eye” and “Pakistan responds”, the military emphasised that the operation is ongoing and warned that any further aggression would be met with force.

The decision to convene the National Command Authority suggests that Pakistan is now viewing the conflict through a strategic lens, as the body is directly responsible for the country’s nuclear posture and related military doctrine.

With active air battles, missile strikes, and widespread troop mobilisation already underway, the window for diplomatic de-escalation appears to be narrowing significantly.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has declared that "all options are available" for the country amid the escalating military conflict with India, accusing New Delhi of forcing Islamabad into retaliation.

Speaking to Geo News, Dar said that Pakistan had responded after suffering considerable losses, claiming that 35 civilians were killed during earlier Indian attacks and that multiple Pakistani air force bases had also been targeted.

“In the earlier Indian attacks, our 35 civilians were killed. Hours ago, India attacked our air force bases. We had done everything on a defensive mode and we were forced to retaliate,” he stated.

Dar said the decision to strike back had been made as a last resort, and that friendly nations and the wider international community were aware of Pakistan’s restraint prior to this escalation.

“India left us with no choice. The world is watching. It is the responsibility of the international community to play its role — and they should have done so when India attacked Pakistan and killed civilians,” he added.

India has announced the large-scale mobilisation of additional military forces to its border areas in response to escalating tensions with Pakistan. The Indian military confirmed on Friday that it had begun activating its reserve Territorial Army (TA) units to boost operational readiness.

According to the Ministry of Defence, 14 of the 32 infantry battalions of the TA have been activated for deployment across various regions of the country. Each TA battalion consists of approximately 750 personnel, bringing the total number of mobilised troops to over 10,000.

The units will remain active until at least February 2028 under the current directive. Officials stated that the move is part of ensuring “full operational strength of the army” in the event of any further escalation or prolonged conflict.

The mobilisation comes amid a week of heightened military engagements between India and Pakistan, including reported missile strikes, aerial dogfights, and intensified shelling across the Line of Control.

India has also shut 32 airports in the north and west of the country until 15 May, while Pakistan has temporarily closed its airspace following recent strikes on its airbases.

Pakistan’s state broadcaster PTV News has reported that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) destroyed India’s S-400 Triumf air defence system stationed in Adampur using JF-17 Thunder jets armed with hypersonic missiles.

آپریشن بُنْيَانٌ مَّرْصُوْص (آہنی دیوار)اپڈیٹ

پاکستان ائیر فورس کے جے ایف 17 تھنڈر کے ہائپر سونک میزائلوں نے آدم پور میں بھارت کا S-400 سسٹم تباہ کر دیا
S -400 ائیر ڈیفنس سسٹم کی مالیت لگ بھگ 1.5 بلین ڈالر ہے#PakistanZindabad#BunyanAlMarsous#IronWall pic.twitter.com/ssMHx9mhZX

— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) May 10, 2025

The report claims the strike occurred during a precision engagement amid ongoing aerial operations between the two nations. The S-400 system, supplied by Russia and considered among the most advanced surface-to-air missile defences globally, is valued at approximately $1.5 billion.

According to PTV, the hypersonic missile strike completely neutralised the installation.

Pakistan has accused India of launching missile strikes on three of its military airbases, with the country's military vowing a strong response. The accusation was made in a televised address by Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, broadcast live on state television.

According to the Pakistani military, the strikes occurred late in the night and targeted sensitive military installations, including the Nur Khan airbase in Rawalpindi — a key base near the military headquarters and just 10km (6.2 miles) from the capital, Islamabad.

Lt Gen Chaudhry stated that while most of the incoming missiles were intercepted by Pakistan’s air defence systems, some managed to penetrate and strike targets. “Our forces are fully prepared,” he said, describing the attacks as “cowardly”.

He concluded the address with a stern warning to India: “They should wait for our response.”

India has not issued any statement on the claims made by Pakistan.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated further following reported airstrikes overnight, prompting both countries to impose sweeping airspace restrictions.

At approximately 03:15 local time (22:15 GMT), Pakistan claimed that Indian forces carried out strikes on three Pakistani airbases. In immediate response, Pakistan’s Airports Authority announced a nationwide airspace closure for all traffic until midday local time.

Just moments ago, the Airports Authority of India confirmed it is closing 32 airports across northern and western India until the morning of 15 May. The affected airports span key regions close to the Line of Control and western border areas.

Pakistan has officially launched “Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos” in retaliation for recent Indian military actions, claiming to have targeted infrastructure used by Indian forces to launch attacks on Pakistani territory.

Pakistan has launched Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos in retaliation to Indian strikes, targeting sites used for attacks.

Confirmed hits include airbases in Pathankot, Srinagar, Jalandhar and radar systems in Gujrat. Level of damage remains unclear. pic.twitter.com/2KZ783cdat

— BPI News (@BPINewsOrg) May 10, 2025

According to preliminary reports shared by officials and defence sources, a series of high-impact strikes have been carried out on Indian military installations across multiple regions. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, Pakistan's military says all targets were carefully selected based on their involvement in recent hostile activity.

Round 1 – Confirmed Hits (Damage Assessment Pending):

• Beas: Reported strike on a BrahMos missile storage site

• Udhampur: Foreign Object Debris area, airstrip, and air defence systems targeted

• Pathankot: Significant damage to the airbase reported

• Jalandhar: Airbase currently under engagement

• Gujrat: Radar and airbase systems struck

• Srinagar: Airbase hit, with unconfirmed reports suggesting 20 soldiers impacted

• Chandigarh: Forward Ammunition Depot (FAD) struck

• Rajasthan: Multiple unspecified military installations reportedly targeted

Pakistan’s Ministry of Defence stated the operation was "measured, limited and directed solely at military objectives directly linked to the planning and execution of recent aggression against Pakistan.”

India has yet to issue an official response. No third-party verification of the strikes or casualties has been made available as of now.

Amid soaring military and diplomatic tensions, a Pakistani cyberattack has reportedly taken down a significant portion of India’s national power grid. According to a source within Pakistan’s defence and cyber operations unit, approximately 70% of India's power infrastructure has been rendered inoperable.

The alleged cyber offensive marks a dramatic escalation in non-kinetic warfare between the two nuclear-armed states. Reports suggest widespread electricity disruptions across northern and central Indian states, with essential services, communications networks, and defence facilities affected.

The operation is believed to have targeted control systems, transmission nodes, and grid balancing software, potentially using advanced malware and zero-day exploits. The same source indicated that the attack was timed to coincide with Pakistan's ongoing Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos.

As of now, India has not officially confirmed the extent of the grid failure.

A large-scale aerial battle is currently unfolding between the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the Indian Air Force (IAF), with more than 50 Pakistani fighter jets reportedly entering Indian airspace beyond the Line of Control (LoC).

Military sources have described the engagement as one of the most intense dogfights in the region's history, with active radar locks, missile launches, and evasive manoeuvres underway in multiple sectors. The PAF is said to be deploying F-16s, JF-17s, and support aircraft, while Indian Su-30 MKIs, Mirage 2000s, and Rafales have been scrambled in response.

This confrontation comes days after the PAF claimed to have downed five Indian jets—including a Rafale—in earlier engagements on 6–7 May. That claim remains unconfirmed by Indian authorities, who have consistently denied any losses.

Initial speculation that an Indian Rafale fighter jet had been shot down over Sialkot, Pakistan, has been corrected. Defence sources now say that the object captured in early visuals is more likely a drone.

Initial reports claiming an Indian Rafale jet was downed in Sialkot were false.

Footage now confirms the object seen in early visuals is more likely a drone. pic.twitter.com/AuLxgjQ5cr

— BPI News (@BPINewsOrg) May 10, 2025

Footage that emerged earlier showed wreckage in a rural area near Sialkot, sparking widespread reports that a Rafale jet had been downed amid intense aerial engagements between Pakistan and India. However, closer inspection of the debris, combined with the absence of key jet components, led experts to conclude it was not a manned aircraft.

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has released what it claims are audio recordings of Indian Rafale fighter jets being shot down during cross-border clashes on the night of 6–7 May. The audio was played during an official press briefing held at the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) headquarters.

Pakistan has released audio recordings from the night of 6–7 May, claiming to capture the moment Indian Rafale jets were downed.

One pilot is heard saying “reporting explosion in air” as formation command checks status. India has not responded. #India #Pakistan #Rafale pic.twitter.com/NRsJYdDKTS

— BPI News (@BPINewsOrg) May 9, 2025

The recordings include communications between pilots, with a formation commander checking on his squadron. One voice is heard urgently reporting: “Reporting explosion in air!”—a line the PAF says confirms the moment of impact.

The audio was presented as part of Pakistan’s attempt to validate claims made earlier this week that it had downed Indian jets in response to what it described as unprovoked aggression from India.

India has not commented on the newly released audio. Previously, Indian officials denied any loss of aircraft during recent operations and stated that their air defences had successfully neutralised attempted drone and missile attacks from Pakistan.

India’s foreign secretary, Vikram Misri, has accused Pakistan of launching strikes targeting both civilian infrastructure and military establishments during escalatory cross-border actions carried out last night.

India’s foreign secretary Vikram Misri says Pakistan targeted cities and civilian sites in latest strikes.

2 students were killed in Poonch. India has suspended Kartarpur corridor services.

Pakistan denies carrying out any attacks. #India #Pakistan pic.twitter.com/JZUaqVKf5W

— BPI News (@BPINewsOrg) May 9, 2025

Speaking to reporters, Misri stated that Indian armed forces responded “proportionately, adequately, and responsibly” to what he described as deliberate strikes by Pakistan on Indian cities and civilian areas. Pakistan has denied it carried out any such attacks.

One incident highlighted by Misri involved a shell allegedly fired from Pakistan that hit a home in Poonch, Indian-administered Kashmir. The shell killed two school students and injured their parents.

In response to the heightened tensions, India has suspended operations at the Kartarpur corridor, a key visa-free religious crossing used by Sikh pilgrims to travel between two major gurdwaras in India and Pakistan.

India has also been in contact with the foreign ministers of the United Kingdom and Norway.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has claimed that around 25 Indian soldiers were killed during recent cross-border exchanges along the Line of Control (LoC), as tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours continue to escalate.

In an interview with the BBC, Asif alleged that Indian forces initiated the hostilities and that Pakistan targeted two Indian brigade headquarters in response. He acknowledged that Pakistan had “suffered losses” as well, but did not provide any figures.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says 25 Indian soldiers were killed in recent cross-border clashes.

He also claims two Indian brigade HQs were hit. India denies all allegations and says no casualties occurred. #India #Pakistan pic.twitter.com/bRFm8VdWlw

— BPI News (@BPINewsOrg) May 9, 2025

Earlier this week, Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar gave an even higher estimate, suggesting that 40 to 50 Indian soldiers had been killed in the fighting.

The BBC has not been able to independently verify these claims.

India’s Ministry of Defence has denied all such allegations, stating that no Indian casualties have been reported. In a prior press release, the Indian Army said its air defence units had successfully neutralised drone and missile threats without suffering any losses.

As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate sharply, both countries’ top cricket tournaments have been disrupted, and hundreds of civilians have been displaced due to heavy cross-border attacks.

The Indian Premier League (IPL), the world's most valuable cricket tournament, has been suspended for one week. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s cricket board announced that the remaining matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will be relocated to the UAE.

The developments come amid mutual accusations of aerial attacks. India has accused Pakistan of launching missiles and drone strikes on three military bases in Jammu, Udhampur and Pathankot—claims which Pakistan has denied.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told the BBC that Pakistan had “not mounted anything so far,” adding, “when Pakistan does strike, it will be known all over the world.”

On Thursday, Pakistan claimed to have shot down 25 Indian drones. India has not confirmed that specific allegation but has stated it conducted operations targeting Pakistani air defences in response to similar activity from Islamabad.

Heavy shelling along the Line of Control and adjoining regions has damaged dozens of homes and displaced hundreds in border cities.

Global leaders have urged restraint. However, US Vice-President JD Vance made headlines by saying any conflict between India and Pakistan would be “none of our business.”

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been suspended for one week due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, which have prompted growing safety concerns among players and franchise staff.

The decision was announced via the tournament’s official X handle, stating it was taken by the IPL Governing Council “after due consultation with all key stakeholders following the representations from most of the franchisees”.

The statement added that the franchisees “conveyed the concern and sentiments of their players”, leading the board to act in the “collective interest” of all involved.

The suspension comes after cross-border hostilities flared, with India accusing Pakistan of attempting drone and missile strikes on military bases — claims Islamabad has denied. The security environment surrounding sporting venues, particularly in northern cities, has become increasingly tense.

The IPL has so far completed 58 matches, including one abandoned fixture in Dharamsala. Twelve group games remain, scheduled across Lucknow (2), Hyderabad, Ahmedabad (3), Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru (2), Mumbai and Jaipur, followed by playoffs in Hyderabad and Kolkata.

No revised schedule has been issued yet.

In his first public remarks on social media platform X following India’s air strikes on targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the newly elected Pope Leo XIV.

The Indian Prime Minister did not reference the cross-border military activity or the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. However, his language drew attention, particularly his emphasis on “peace, harmony, solidarity and service” in relation to the Pope’s global role.

I convey sincere felicitations and best wishes from the people of India to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace, harmony, solidarity and service. India remains committed to…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 9, 2025

Modi’s post read: “His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace, harmony, solidarity and service.”

Shortly after, he made a second post commemorating the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, the 19th century Indian Nobel laureate born in May.

Despite chairing multiple cabinet and security meetings, Modi has yet to issue an official statement addressing the strikes or Pakistan’s denial of involvement in the reported drone and missile attacks.

A scheduled Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket match has been cancelled due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, a source familiar with the development told the BBC.

The match, which was to be held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, featured Royal Challengers Bangalore facing off against the Lucknow Super Giants. It was listed as the 59th fixture of the 2025 IPL series.

No official statement has been issued by the IPL or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), but the source cited security concerns linked to recent military and political developments in the region.

The cancellation follows a sharp increase in tensions after India accused Pakistan of attempting drone and missile attacks on its military bases in Jammu, Udhampur and Pathankot—claims Pakistan strongly denies.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is set to review the next tranche of its $7 billion bailout package for Pakistan today, as India signals it will urge caution in light of worsening cross-border tensions.

India’s foreign secretary Vikram Misri stated that New Delhi will present its concerns to the IMF board, calling for the fund to “look deep within” and evaluate the long-term impact of its financial support to Islamabad over the past three decades.

This intervention comes as Pakistan’s economy struggles to recover from high inflation and stagnant growth, making IMF funds essential to stabilisation.

The review coincides with rising hostilities between the neighbours. Overnight blackouts and explosions in Jammu have fuelled Indian claims that Pakistan launched drone and missile strikes on three military bases—allegations that have been categorically denied by Islamabad.

Meanwhile, World Bank President Ajay Banga met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and ruled out any role for the institution in mediating India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.

“There’s no provision in the treaty that allows for suspension,” Banga told CNBC TV18. “It either needs to be gone, or replaced by another one.” He added that the World Bank’s role remains limited to facilitation, not enforcement.

The IMF decision is expected later today.

India has accused Pakistan of launching coordinated drone and missile attacks on three military installations across two states, escalating tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

According to the Indian Army, attempted strikes were carried out on bases in Jammu and Udhampur in Indian-administered Kashmir, as well as Pathankot in Punjab. While Indian forces claim to have successfully foiled the attacks, reports of explosions emerged from Jammu city on Thursday evening, coinciding with a widespread blackout and activated air raid sirens.

Two large explosions and air raid sirens were heard in Jammu city, IIOJK, on Thursday evening, according to a Reuters witness.

A citywide blackout followed the blasts amid rising regional tensions.#Jammu #IIOJK #India #Pakistan https://t.co/bLcfBYoyqw pic.twitter.com/bxaGtQycFO

— BPI News (@BPIOrgNews) May 8, 2025

In response, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif firmly denied any involvement. Speaking to the BBC, he said: “We deny it, we have not mounted anything so far. We will not strike and then deny.”