Pakistan’s retaliatory assault triggers airstrikes, heavy shelling and blackouts across Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan; India intercepts all incoming missiles and maintains stance on non-escalation.
Jammu, May 8:
Tensions between India and Pakistan hit a new peak on Thursday night as Pakistani forces launched a fresh wave of missile attacks and artillery shelling on border areas in Jammu and Kashmir, including RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Hiranagar. The Indian Armed Forces successfully intercepted all eight missiles using their air defence systems, officials confirmed.
Also Read: Brazil’s President Lula Stands with India Against Terrorism, Reaffirms Strategic Ties
Around 9 pm, loud explosions rocked Jammu, followed by air raid sirens and a total blackout in several districts. Locals captured footage of bright streaks across the night sky, believed to be Indian missiles intercepting incoming threats. Panic spread as mobile networks went down, making it harder for residents to communicate with loved ones.
Also Read: Pakistan Targets Jammu with Loitering Munitions; India Responds Amid Regional Blackouts
Blackout orders were also issued in Punjab’s Ferozepur and Gurdaspur districts, and border regions of Rajasthan, as a precautionary measure amid escalating hostilities.
Heavy shelling from across the International Border is ongoing in Samba, Akhnoor, Rajouri, and Reasi, defence sources said.
The attack follows India’s Operation Sindoor, a series of precision airstrikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, launched in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
Also Read: Indian Missile Downs Pakistani F-16 Near Sargodha Amid Escalating Tensions
Earlier in the day, India neutralized Pakistani Air Defence Radars, including one in Lahore, after Pakistan attempted to strike military sites in 15 Indian cities. Those attacks were successfully foiled.
The Indian government emphasized that its response remains measured, proportionate, and focused solely on dismantling terror infrastructure. However, it warned that “any escalation by Pakistan will be met with equal intensity.”
Tags:
India Pakistan conflict, Jammu explosions, Pakistani missile attack, Operation Sindoor, RS Pura shelling, Indian air defence, blackout in Punjab, Indo-Pak tensions, missile interception, border security, OperationSindoor,