In a significant escalation late Thursday, Pakistan launched coordinated strikes targeting military sites across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat — hours after an earlier attempt to strike 15 Indian cities was thwarted by Indian forces.

The attack included missile and drone strikes directed at critical military positions, with Jammu facing intense aerial bombardment. Explosions rocked the city around 9 PM, followed by widespread sirens and a complete blackout. Civilian-shot videos circulating online captured the skies lit up by air defence interceptions — signs of the Indian Armed Forces neutralising incoming aerial threats.

Similar blackouts were reported in Kupwara, Pathankot, and several districts in Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, including Chandigarh, Mohali, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Jaisalmer, and Sir Creek, as precautionary measures amid escalating tensions.

Missile Barrage Targeted Military Zones

Eight missiles were fired at high-security zones in RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Hiranagar in Jammu and Kashmir — all of which were intercepted by India's air defence units, military officials confirmed. Pakistani-origin drones also targeted military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur. These attempts were swiftly thwarted using a mix of kinetic strikes and electronic countermeasures, the Defence Ministry said, confirming no casualties or damage.

Indian Forces Down Pakistani F-16

Amid the retaliatory measures, Indian forces reportedly brought down a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet that had taken off from the Sargodha airbase. Sources confirmed the use of India's surface-to-air missile systems to intercept the aircraft.

Artillery Fire Hits Pathankot

Pathankot, a strategic town near the International Border, also came under heavy artillery shelling from across the border. The location, critical for military logistics, was previously targeted in similar attempts during periods of heightened tension.

IPL Match Called Off, Air Travel on High Alert

The IPL cricket match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, was cancelled due to security concerns. The stadium was evacuated and floodlights shut off as a precautionary measure.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued a countrywide security alert, calling for tighter screening protocols. Measures include additional passenger checks, enhanced CCTV coverage, restricted terminal access, and increased deployment of air marshals on select flights.

US Calls for Calm

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who urged both countries to de-escalate and engage in direct communication. The U.S. State Department reiterated its backing for diplomatic channels and crisis avoidance mechanisms.

Backdrop: Operation Sindoor and Escalation

This latest escalation follows India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, a series of precision strikes on Wednesday targeting nine terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. The operation came in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, many of them tourists.

Pakistan retaliated early Thursday by attempting to strike 15 Indian cities — a move that was fully foiled by Indian defences. In a counter-response, Indian forces neutralised several Pakistani radar and defence sites, including installations near Lahore.

The Indian government has emphasised that its military actions remain "measured, focused, and non-escalatory," and reaffirmed its position that further strikes will only follow if provoked.