New Delhi/Islamabad: India announced on Wednesday that it carried out strikes on nine sites across Pakistan, including areas in the disputed Kashmir region, in retaliation for last month’s deadly attack that left 26 people—mostly tourists—dead in Indian-administered Kashmir. India blamed Pakistan for the assault. In response, Pakistan confirmed that a counter-operation to the missile strikes was underway.
This latest exchange of fire adds to the enduring saga of hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Here’s a chronological look at some of the most significant confrontations between India and Pakistan:
1947: First War Over Kashmir
The roots of the conflict trace back to the partition of British India in August 1947, which created the independent states of India and Pakistan. The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, with a Muslim-majority population but a Hindu ruler, became the flashpoint. The ruler’s decision to accede to India prompted Pakistan to claim the region, citing the will of the people.
Months of fighting ensued until the United Nations brokered a ceasefire in 1949, establishing a Line of Control (LoC) that remains in place. Both countries continue to claim the territory in full, while each controls a part of it.
1965: Second War Over Kashmir
Tensions reignited in 1965 when Pakistan launched an operation to infiltrate Indian-administered Kashmir. India responded with a full-scale military offensive. The conflict quickly escalated beyond Kashmir, resulting in intense battles on both land and in the air—including some of the largest tank engagements since World War II. A ceasefire was eventually negotiated under international pressure.
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1971: War Leading to Bangladesh’s Independence
The third Indo-Pak war erupted over Pakistan’s eastern territory, where demands for independence had reached a boiling point. India intervened militarily, citing humanitarian concerns and a flood of refugees. The war resulted in the deaths of thousands and culminated in the creation of Bangladesh. It remains one of the most defining moments in South Asia’s modern history.
1999: Kargil Conflict
The Kargil War was sparked when Pakistani soldiers and militants crossed into Indian positions in the high-altitude Kargil sector of Kashmir. It marked the first direct conflict between the two nations since they became nuclear powers. India launched a military campaign to recapture the territory, and global diplomatic efforts eventually helped de-escalate the situation. Both sides suffered heavy casualties.
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2016: Uri Attack
India carried out what it described as “surgical strikes” targeting militant camps across the Line of Control, following an attack on an Indian army base in Uri, Kashmir. Pakistan denied the incursion, stating that no such strike occurred and that its forces had not retaliated.
2019: Pulwama Attack
After a suicide bombing in Pulwama killed over 40 Indian paramilitary personnel, India responded with airstrikes on what it claimed was a terrorist training facility in Balakot, Pakistan. Pakistan rejected the claim, asserting the site was uninhabited. The situation intensified further when Pakistan shot down an Indian fighter jet and captured the pilot. However, tensions eased after Pakistan returned the pilot a few days later.
With the latest exchanges, fears are again rising over the potential for broader conflict. Both sides remain on high alert, and the international community is closely watching developments in the region.
