Tensions have sharply escalated between India and Pakistan following Indian missile strikes on several locations in Pakistan, including the Pakistan-administered region of Azad Kashmir. According to Pakistani authorities, the attacks resulted in 31 fatalities. In response, Islamabad has authorized its military to carry out retaliatory strikes.
Amid growing fears of further conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump has urged both countries to de-escalate and seek a peaceful resolution.
“I know both countries very well. I want them to end this conflict,” President Trump said during a brief interaction with journalists in the Oval Office, as reported by the BBC on Thursday (May 8).
He emphasized the need for dialogue, saying, “I want them to work things out between themselves. If I can assist in any way, I’ll definitely be there to help.”
The Indian strikes, which occurred overnight, targeted nine different sites across Pakistan. The confirmed death toll has climbed to 31, raising concerns about a broader military confrontation.
Key Developments:
Pakistan deployed 125 fighter jets in retaliatory operations.
“We will take revenge,” declared Pakistan’s Prime Minister in a national address.
PM Shehbaz claims Pakistan has delivered a strong response to India.
Pakistani military granted full authority to launch counterattacks.
Three Indian warplanes reportedly crashed in India-administered Kashmir (Reuters).
Pakistan claims Indian troops raised 'white flags' at the border.
Out of five downed Indian aircraft, three were Rafale fighter jets.
In an earlier reaction, President Trump had described India’s missile offensive as “shameful” and expressed hope that any hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors would be resolved swiftly.