Pakistan’s military has reported that at least 31 civilians lost their lives and 57 others were wounded following unprovoked Indian strikes on multiple locations in Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The attacks, which occurred overnight, targeted civilian areas and vital infrastructure, drawing strong condemnation from Islamabad.
In a press briefing on Wednesday, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, stated that Pakistan retains the right to defend itself in the face of such aggression. He described the Indian strikes as a clear act of war, emphasizing that they deliberately targeted non-military locations such as mosques and the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project.
“These attacks reveal the true face of our enemy,” Lt Gen Chaudhry said. “Instead of engaging our forces directly, India struck civilian populations under the cover of darkness — an act that amounts to terrorism.”
He added that Indian forces launched approximately two dozen strikes on six different Pakistani sites. The increased number of casualties was attributed to sustained shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), which continued even after the initial assault.
In response, Pakistan’s armed forces launched a retaliatory operation, downing five Indian fighter jets — including three Rafales — destroying seven drones, a brigade headquarters, and several checkposts near the LoC.
Lt Gen Chaudhry emphasized that Pakistan’s retaliation was limited to military targets in accordance with international law. “We responded with precision and discipline. Unlike the enemy, we did not target civilians,” he stated.
He also referenced Article 54 of the 1977 Additional Protocol I of the Geneva Conventions, which forbids attacks on objects vital to civilian survival. “India’s shelling of hydropower facilities is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law,” he added.
During the press conference, video footage was shown depicting the civilian toll — including children — from the Indian strikes. The spokesperson questioned the Indian justification for the attacks, asking, “Are these the so-called terrorists India claims to be targeting?”
He further criticized India for shifting from supporting proxy militants to carrying out direct military aggression. “When we dismantled India’s terrorist networks, it resorted to using its armed forces to terrorize our population,” he remarked.
Calling the air combat a rare and remarkable operation, the DG ISPR commended the Pakistan Air Force for its swift and effective response. “We are proud of our airmen — their professionalism was evident in this exceptional aerial engagement.”
Lt Gen Chaudhry concluded by asserting that Pakistan’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens are non-negotiable. “We will defend our nation against any aggression. Our people stand united with the armed forces, and together, we are ready to confront any threat.”
