'Operation Sindoor': India Launches Most Expansive Retaliatory Strikes on Terror Sites Since 2019

'Operation Sindoor' Marks India's Most Expansive Retaliatory Action in Recent Years

The Indian Armed Forces' coordinated strikes against nine alleged terrorist locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) late Wednesday night, codenamed "Operation Sindoor," represent the most geographically widespread retaliatory action undertaken by India in recent years. This operation surpasses the more localized nature of the 2019 Balakot airstrikes and the 2016 surgical strikes. This brief provides further details on the targeted sites and the context of the operation.

Join the Whatsapp Channel to Get News updates in english

Targeted Locations and Their Significance

While specific details regarding the weapon systems remain unconfirmed, the actions are believed to have involved high-precision missile strikes. According to reports, four of the nine targeted sites include:

• Bahawalpur (Pakistan Punjab): Known as a stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group, led by Masood Azhar.

• Muridke (Pakistan Punjab): Identified as the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the organization responsible for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

• Kotli (PoK): Situated across the Line of Control from Jammu, a region historically affected by cross-border militancy.

• Muzaffarabad (PoK): The capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, known to host various militant groups that have previously infiltrated into India.

Also Read: Operation Sindoor: Over 80 terrorists killed

Operational Context and Stated Intent

The operation's codename, "Operation Sindoor," is reportedly a reference to the victims of the Pahalgam attack. Prior to the strikes, India had initiated several diplomatic measures and a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) indicated large-scale IAF drills along the international border, described then as a pre-planned exercise.

India's Ministry of Defence reiterated that the actions were "focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature," with no Pakistani military facilities targeted. The statement emphasized "considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," framing the operation as a fulfillment of the commitment to hold those responsible for the Pahalgam attack accountable.

Also Read: Odisha CM Mohan Majhi praises Indian Armed Forces for precision & resolve in Operation Sindoor

"Operation Sindoor" signifies a notable escalation in India's response to perceived cross-border terrorism, distinguished by the number and spread of targets across both Pakistan proper and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation underscores India's resolve to act against terror infrastructure, while officially maintaining a stance of measured and non-escalatory engagement.