Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) has officially authorized the armed forces to respond to India’s military strikes under Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Pakistan’s Official Statement
- The NSC, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, termed India’s strikes as “unprovoked, cowardly, and unlawful acts of war”.
- Pakistan invoked Article 51 of the UN Charter, stating that it reserves the right to retaliate in self-defense at a time, place, and manner of its choosing.
- The Pakistani Army has been given full authority to undertake corresponding actions against India.
India’s Operation Sindoor
- India launched precision air, drone, and missile strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoK on May 7, 2025, in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
- The Indian Army confirmed that the strikes were targeted solely at terror camps, avoiding Pakistani military installations.
Pakistan’s Allegations
- Pakistan claimed that India’s strikes hit civilian areas, including Sialkot, Bahawalpur, and Muridke, causing civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure, including religious sites and the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project.
- The NSC called upon the international community to hold India accountable for violating international norms.
Next Steps & Rising Tensions
- PM Shehbaz Sharif is set to address the nation and hold a cabinet meeting to discuss Pakistan’s response strategy.
- The situation remains highly volatile, with both nations on high alert.
