India has confirmed that five of its soldiers were killed during recent fighting with Pakistan. The Indian Army gave this update on Sunday during an official briefing.
The fighting began after a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. Armed men killed 26 people in that attack on April 22. Most of the victims were tourists. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, but Pakistan has denied all claims.
In response, India launched a military mission called Operation Sindoor on May 7. The operation targeted nine terrorist camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. India said this was a defensive move to stop further threats.
The Indian Army said that their goal was to destroy terror bases. But when Pakistan responded with airstrikes on Indian areas, India used heavy weapons to defend itself. The army believes that many Pakistani soldiers were killed too. India estimates that between 35 and 40 Pakistani soldiers died from May 7 to May 10.
However, these numbers are still being reviewed and confirmed. India said that when Pakistan attacked Indian infrastructure, it had no choice but to reply with force. Many of these actions took place near the Line of Control (LoC), the border between the two countries in Kashmir.
India said its forces destroyed several Pakistani military targets. These included drone launch sites and at least a few airbases. The Indian Army also said that it stopped several missile attacks from Pakistan.
The deaths of the five Indian soldiers came during this intense period of fighting. The army honored their sacrifice. It said their bravery would never be forgotten. “Their sacrifice for the country will always be remembered,” said the Indian Army in the briefing.
India also warned Pakistan not to break the peace again. The two countries had agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday with the help of the United States. But only hours later, India said that Pakistan broke the deal and launched fresh attacks.
In response, India said it would give a strong answer to any future attacks. The army warned that any more actions by Pakistan would be met with “a firm and fitting reply.”
Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai of the Indian Army gave more details in a press briefing. He said India sent a warning to Pakistan through the military hotline. This message was sent directly to Pakistan’s Army Chief.
India also repeated its main goal: to stop terrorism and keep peace. Officials said that the attack in Pahalgam was a trigger, and that Operation Sindoor was focused only on terrorist camps, not civilians.
Even as tensions grow, India said it does not want war. It wants peace but will defend itself if needed. “We will avoid war, but we are ready if forced to act,” said a senior official.
The situation at the border is still tense. Both India and Pakistan blame each other for the current violence. The death of Indian soldiers has added to public anger.
Citizens in both countries now fear more attacks. The hope for lasting peace seems far away as both sides remain on high alert.
For now, the Indian Army is watching closely. It says it will stay ready to protect the country at all costs.
