Escalation in South Asia: India and Pakistan Locked in Fierce Conflict

India and Pakistan are embroiled in their most severe conflict in over two decades. Indian strikes on alleged terrorist sites and Pakistan's vow to retaliate have escalated tensions. Both nations accuse each other of false claims, with civilian casualties reported. International calls for restraint grow amid fears of further escalation.

Amid heightened tensions, India conducted missile strikes targeting alleged terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan, claiming links to past militant attacks. Pakistan, in response, asserted the destruction of Indian aircraft and promised retaliation after suffering civilian casualties.

Both countries, with a history of conflict over Kashmir, have engaged in cross-border shelling, escalating fears of further hostilities. India's Defense Minister confirmed targeted strikes, claiming precision to avoid civilian zones, yet Pakistan denies harboring militant camps.

International leaders, including U.S. President Trump and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, are urging both nations to exercise restraint to prevent an escalation. Meanwhile, the conflict has also impacted regional stocks and airline operations, reflecting the broader implications of the skirmishes.

(With inputs from agencies.)