Pakistan–India Tensions Escalate

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, asserted that India raised white flags along the Line of Control (LoC)—a gesture he interpreted as an admission of defeat. His comments follow a series of Indian air strikes on Pakistani territory, which Islamabad vehemently condemned.

Claims of White Flags at the LoC

During a press briefing, Minister Tarar praised the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for its swift and decisive response. “By raising white flags, India has effectively signaled its defeat at the LoC,” he stated, underscoring Islamabad’s confidence in its defensive capabilities.

Casualties and Damage from Indian Strikes

According to the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Indian air strikes involved 24 sorties targeting six separate locations within Pakistan. The strikes resulted in:

• 26 civilian deaths, including women and children

• 46 injuries

• Extensive property and infrastructure damage in affected areas

These figures highlight the human cost of the recent escalation.

Pakistan’s Military Response

The Pakistan Air Force responded by engaging the intruding aircraft. Military spokespeople reported that Pakistan had successfully downed five Indian fighter jets—three Rafale jets, one MiG-29, and one Su-series aircraft—as well as an Israeli-made Heron combat drone. The PAF emphasized that these actions were taken to defend Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Government’s Stance and International Image

The Pakistani government issued a strong condemnation of India’s targeting of civilian areas, labeling the strikes “highly regrettable.” Officials also accused New Delhi of deploying propaganda tactics intended to tarnish Pakistan’s international standing. Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to peace and regional stability, while reserving the right to respond proportionately to any future aggression.

Conclusion

The latest round of exchanges between Pakistan and India has further strained relations between the two neighbors. Minister Tarar’s claims of white flags at the LoC underscore Islamabad’s narrative of victory, while the reported civilian casualties and military engagements illustrate the high stakes of this confrontation. As both sides navigate the crisis, the international community remains watchful, urging de-escalation and a return to diplomatic channels.