Pakistan's military announced Thursday that it shot down an Indian fighter jet near the disputed Kashmir border, escalating tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors. The pilot of the downed aircraft was reportedly captured by Pakistani forces, according to official statements. This marks the second such incident in a week-long series of skirmishes that have claimed at least 48 lives on both sides.
Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan has called an emergency meeting of the National Command Authority on May 10 to address the crisis, amid accusations from both nations of airspace violations and drone incursions. Analysts warn the clashes could destabilize broader regional security as thousands of residents near the Line of Control evacuate border areas.
Global leaders including UN Secretary-General António Guterres have urged restraint, underscoring fears of unintended escalation between two nations with historic territorial disputes. The United States and China also reportedly initiated backchannel diplomatic efforts to de-escalate hostilities.
This week's hostilities follow heightened drone activity along the Kashmir frontier, with both militaries accusing each other of deploying munitions. Humanitarian agencies report growing displacement and supply shortages in affected villages. Observers note the situation remains fluid as cross-border communications remain severed.
