Escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan erupted into direct confrontation early Wednesday, with Indian airstrikes targeting multiple sites in Pakistan, including a mosque in Bahawalpur city. Local authorities report at least 31 civilian deaths and dozens injured, marking one of the deadliest cross-border incidents in recent years.
India claims the strikes were retaliation for a "terrorist attack" on tourists in Pahalgam, located in Indian-administered Kashmir. However, Pakistan has denied involvement in the Pahalgam incident and asserted it downed five Indian fighter jets during the clash. CGTN Stringer Quddsia Awais documented harrowing accounts from Bahawalpur residents, who described attacks on civilian infrastructure. "They targeted innocent children and sacred places of worship," said Javed Akhtar, a local resident.
The international community has called for restraint as regional stability faces renewed strain. Analysts warn the conflict risks derailing ongoing diplomatic efforts to address longstanding disputes in Kashmir.
