India-Pakistan tensions escalate; armed forces on high alert, key Pakistani targets hit

New Delhi: Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply, with Indian armed forces responding strongly to drone and missile attacks originating from across the border. The Indian Army said it has shot down Pakistan’s F-16 and JF-17 fighter jets, along with intercepting eight missiles and dozens of drones.

Border regions in Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir have been placed on high alert. The Indian Navy has also launched major operations in the Arabian Sea, targeting multiple Pakistani military bases.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken with the Directors General of Police (DGPs) of all border states to review the security situation. In an earlier operation, India had neutralised several missiles and parts of Pakistan’s air defence system.

Meanwhile, heavy firing continues from the Pakistani side along the international border, prompting a strong retaliatory response from Indian forces.

Amid rising tensions, diplomatic activity has intensified in Delhi. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to discuss the developments.