India and Pakistan are currently experiencing their most extensive military conflict in decades, marked by ongoing shelling and drone attacks. On Friday, Indian defense officials reported that Pakistan's military attempted aerial incursions at 36 locations using between 300 to 400 drones to test India's air-defense capabilities.
In a reciprocal action, Pakistani military officials claimed to have shot down 25 Indian drones, including in major cities like Karachi and Rawalpindi. Pakistani officials accused India of engaging in "drone terrorism" by targeting civilian areas, a claim that India has not publicly addressed.
This conflict represents the first instance of drone warfare between the two nuclear-armed nations, potentially altering global perceptions of their hostilities, similar to the shift seen after both countries acquired nuclear capabilities in the 1990s.
The escalation of tensions began following a militant attack that resulted in 26 deaths in India-controlled Kashmir last month, which India attributed to Pakistan, leading to threats of military action from New Delhi. Pakistan has denied any involvement.
Since Wednesday, the situation has intensified, with India conducting airstrikes on Pakistani targets, prompting claims from Pakistan of downing five Indian jets. Heavy fighting has continued along the 460-mile border dividing Kashmir.
Residents in Jammu, a city on the Indian side of Kashmir, reported a complete blackout and described witnessing drones and missiles overhead, alongside artillery fire. The shelling, which resumed on Thursday night, has reportedly resulted in civilian casualties, though these claims remain unverified.
Many residents expressed fatigue over the ongoing violence, with some suggesting that a nuclear conflict might be preferable to their current suffering. In Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, large gatherings were held for funeral prayers of individuals killed in the shelling.
Concerns over food and financial shortages have prompted residents near the border to stockpile essentials and withdraw cash from banks. Despite diplomatic efforts from countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, both India and Pakistan have largely ignored calls for de-escalation from the U.S. and Europe.
Indian military officials have indicated they are mobilizing thousands of soldiers to support ongoing operations, while both countries have suspended or relocated their cricket leagues due to safety concerns. The Indian Premier League has paused matches for a week, and the Pakistan Super League has moved its remaining games to the UAE.
Historically, India and Pakistan have fought three wars since their separation in 1947, with Kashmir being a central issue in each conflict. The current situation has left populations on both sides anxious and uncertain about the future.