In a dramatic escalation along the disputed border, Pakistan has vowed to avenge those tragically lost in recent air strikes. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared, "We make this pledge, that we will avenge each drop of the blood of these martyrs," highlighting a strong reaction to the unfolding violence.
According to reports, at least 43 lives have been lost so far. Islamabad attributes 31 civilian deaths to Indian air strikes and border firing, while New Delhi reports 12 casualties from Pakistani shelling. Adding to the tension, Pakistan military spokesman Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry mentioned that five Indian jets were downed, whereas an Indian security source noted that three fighter jets crashed on home territory.
Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to shore up his domestic popularity, warning that Islamabad "won't take long to settle the score." Both sides have exchanged heavy artillery fire along the Line of Control, with Pakistan asserting its right to respond in self-defense at the time, place, and manner deemed necessary by its military authorities.
This volatile confrontation follows a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22 in India-controlled Kashmir, further heightening regional tensions. Amid ongoing clashes, experts and observers continue to call for restraint to prevent a broader conflict. ⚡️🔥 Stay tuned as the situation evolves!
Reference(s):
Pakistan vows to avenge Indian strikes amid calls for restraint
cgtn.com
