India Strikes Back: Major Counter attack Hits Key Pakistani Cities

New Delhi : Tensions escalated sharply on the India-Pakistan border as India launched a powerful counterattack targeting five key Pakistani cities — Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Bahawalpur, and Multan — in response to Pakistan’s failed missile and drone strikes.

The Indian Army’s swift retaliation, backed by the Indian Navy’s Western Command, created panic in Pakistan. Air raid sirens were heard across several cities, while critical military installations were targeted. In a major blow to Pakistan’s surveillance capabilities, India destroyed its most advanced Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), which plays a vital role in aerial reconnaissance and battle coordination.

Pakistan had earlier attempted to strike the Indian state of Rajasthan, launching 30 missiles toward Jaisalmer. However, India’s robust air defense system intercepted and neutralized all incoming missiles. A Pakistani F-16 fighter jet was also reportedly shot down near Jaisalmer, and the pilot is said to be injured. A temporary blackout was enforced in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan as a precautionary measure, with sirens warning residents to stay indoors.

Electricity has now been restored in Jammu after Pakistan attempted to attack the city’s airport and railway station using drones. Authorities have since urged civilians to remain vigilant and indoors amid the heightened security situation.

Speaking to the media, Indian Army Colonel Qureshi and Air Force Wing Commander Vyomika Singh confirmed that Pakistan tried to launch coordinated attacks on multiple Indian military bases using drones and missiles during the night of May 7-8. The intended targets included Avantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj.

However, India’s integrated anti-drone (UAS) defense grid and air defense systems effectively neutralized the threat. Debris recovered from various impact sites confirmed that the attacks had originated from within Pakistani territory.

In retaliation, Indian forces launched precision strikes targeting Pakistan’s air defense radars and missile sites, including a key installation in Lahore. Additionally, the Indian Army responded to unprovoked Pakistani firing along the Line of Control (LoC) in areas like Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, Poonch, Mendhar, and Rajouri. Pakistan reportedly used heavy artillery and mortars in these sectors.

Tragically, 16 Indian civilians, including three women and five children, lost their lives due to Pakistani shelling. Indian forces responded with what they described as a “measured but firm” counterstrike to prevent further casualties.

Earlier this week, India had also carried out airstrikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, eliminating nearly 100 terrorists. These operations are seen as part of a broader strategy to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and respond decisively to cross-border aggression.

The situation remains tense along the border, with both sides on high alert. The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to protecting its citizens and territorial integrity.

Team Maverick.