Pakistan has launched a major military campaign code-named Operation Bunyanun Marsoos, which translates to “Concrete Structure”, in response to continued Indian strikes, according to Pakistani official sources.
Multiple targets across India are reportedly being engaged under the operation. In the initial strike, the BrahMos missile storage facility in the Indian city of Beas was destroyed, sources said. Pakistan also claims to have knocked out 70% of India’s power grid through a cyberattack, as reported by Pakistan-based Geo News, citing security sources.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened an emergency meeting of the National Command Authority on Saturday to deliberate potential responses involving the country’s missile and nuclear capabilities, as reported by Pakistani state television.
Escalating Military Actions
Earlier, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army stated that India had launched air-to-surface missiles at three air bases in Pakistan, but all strategic assets of the Pakistan Air Force remained safe. India carried out missile and drone strikes targeting multiple Pakistani military installations in Punjab province, including Nur Khan Air Base near Islamabad, Murid Air Base, and Shorkot Air Base, according to Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations.
“These unprovoked and reckless acts demonstrate India’s madness and treacherous nature,” Chaudhry said. “Through its continued aggression, India is pushing the region toward a dangerous and unnecessary conflict. Now you just wait for our response.”
Regional Tensions Rise
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22. On Friday, both countries traded blame for deadly drone attacks.
Approximately 48 people have been killed since Wednesday, based on casualty estimates from both sides that have not been independently verified. Tourists and villagers have fled border zones, residents are stockpiling food, and people have been advised to stay indoors in cities in Kashmir and beyond.
Impact on Daily Life and Economy
In response to the escalating tensions, India’s cricket board suspended the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday, and the Pakistan Super League postponed its remaining matches. India’s Directorate General of Shipping has directed all ports, terminals, and shipyards to enhance security amid growing concerns about potential threats.
Financial markets have reacted to the unrest, with Indian shares falling for a second straight session on Friday, losing about $83 billion in market value. Both key stock indexes lost 1.1%. In contrast, Pakistan’s benchmark share index closed 3.52% higher, with traders crediting a reduction in violence within Pakistani territory after Thursday’s clashes.
Calls for Restraint
The international community has urged maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan, calling on the two neighbors to engage in direct dialogue to de-escalate the situation.
