The Pakistan Army on Tuesday reported having delivered a “strong response” to alleged Indian military aggression, with Indian media outlets confirming increasing casualties and several aircraft being downed in the ongoing cross-border conflict.
Official sources from Pakistan stated that retaliatory strikes were carried out in response to what they described as “unprovoked violations” along the Line of Control (LoC), particularly in the Poonch sector. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) swiftly responded overnight, targeting Indian military assets in what was termed a “measured yet firm” action.
Indian news agencies, such as The Hindu and NDTV, reported that at least 10 Indian military personnel were killed and over 35 injured in shelling and airstrikes across multiple locations. In the Poonch region, significant damage was inflicted on Indian positions, with confirmed casualties and substantial material losses.
In a significant development, both Indian and international media, including Reuters, reported that at least three Indian Air Force (IAF) jets were shot down in Jammu and Kashmir. The aircraft reportedly included three Rafales, a MiG-29, and a Sukhoi Su-30, with incidents occurring in Bathinda, Akhnoor, and Awantipora. Additionally, an Indian surveillance drone was destroyed in the Barnala sector.
Indian authorities have yet to officially confirm the full extent of the aircraft losses, but preliminary statements acknowledged “operational losses” in air combat along the LoC. An Indian defense spokesperson declined to provide further details, citing national security concerns and ongoing investigations.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) of Pakistan emphasized that all actions were carried out in self-defense and with restraint. “The Indian side initiated hostilities under the cover of darkness. Pakistan reserves the right to respond appropriately to any aggression,” the ISPR said in a statement late Tuesday.
International coverage, including reports from Reuters and Al Jazeera, confirmed the downing of Indian aircraft, supporting local claims of aerial clashes. Analysts have expressed concern about the escalating tensions in the region and have called for diplomatic efforts to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
The renewed exchange of fire has once again highlighted the fragile peace along the heavily militarized LoC, with fears that the conflict could escalate if not addressed through diplomatic channels. As of Tuesday evening, neither India’s Ministry of External Affairs nor Pakistan’s Foreign Office had made any formal diplomatic announcements, although international observers have urged restraint from both sides.
