Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions Over Drone and Missile Strikes

Tensions between India and Pakistan have significantly escalated following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists last month, which India attributes to Pakistan. On Thursday, India reported intercepting multiple missiles and drones launched by Pakistan targeting Indian military sites, though no casualties were reported. Both nations exchanged accusations of conducting drone strikes on military installations, with India claiming it targeted Pakistani air-defense systems in response to attacks, and Pakistan reporting three deaths and additional injuries from Indian drones. The town of Poonch and other areas in Kashmir have suffered intense shelling, resulting in civilian casualties and property damage. Pakistan alleged that India struck military and civilian sites, causing 31 civilian deaths, which India denies. Diplomatic efforts, including U.S. involvement, are underway to defuse the growing crisis amid concerns of further escalation between the two nuclear-armed nations. Despite mutual accusations and retaliatory actions, both countries claim they are attempting to avoid a full-scale conflict.