India recently launched airstrikes on several terror-related locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This came just days after a terrible attack in the peaceful tourist town of Pahalgam, where 26 civilians, mostly Hindu men, were killed.

The Indian government said the strikes were aimed only at places linked to terror groups. They also made it clear that the action was “focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature,” meaning they tried not to make the situation worse.

Pakistan's top leaders, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, held a meeting through the National Security Committee (NSC) to talk about the airstrikes. The NSC shared a strong message, saying Pakistan has the right to respond.

In a statement from the Prime Minister's Office, the NSC said:

“Pakistan reserves the right to respond to India's airstrikes in self-defence at a time, place, and manner of its choosing.”

Pakistan also called the strikes “naked aggression” and said they were “unprovoked and unjustified attacks” that had harmed civilians, including women and children.

Pakistan says the airstrikes were a serious breach of its land and laws. The NSC added that under international law, these actions were like starting a war.

Citing a rule from the United Nations, Article 51, Pakistan said:

“Pakistan has the right to retaliate in self-defence to avenge the loss of innocent Pakistani lives and blatant violation of its sovereignty.”

So far, there’s no sign of further action, but both sides have made it clear they are prepared. India stands by its claim that the strikes were only against terror bases, while Pakistan says it will respond if needed.

 

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