By Khabar Rojana 
On May 10, 2025, India confirmed that Pakistan launched coordinated missile and drone attacks on three key military airbases: Pathankot, Bathinda, and Udhampur. This escalation, termed “Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos” by Pakistan, marks a significant intensification of hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
In a special briefing, Indian officials provided insights into the attacks:
- Pathankot: The Indian Air Force’s Pathankot Airbase in Punjab was targeted.
- Bathinda: The Bathinda Airbase, also in Punjab, was struck.
- Udhampur: The Udhampur Airbase in Jammu & Kashmir was attacked.
The attacks involved a combination of ballistic missiles and drones, leading to significant damage to infrastructure. However, Indian authorities reported that the majority of the threats were neutralized, and there were no casualties among Indian personnel.
Pakistan’s military operation, named “Bunyan-un-Marsoos,” was described as a retaliatory measure following India’s missile strikes on Pakistani military sites. The Pakistani military claimed to have targeted Indian airbases and military installations in response to what they termed as “provocations” by India.
| Date | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| May 7, 2025 | Operation Sindoor | India launched missile strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. |
| May 9, 2025 | Pakistan’s Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos | Pakistan retaliated with missile strikes on Indian military bases. |
| May 10, 2025 | Diplomatic Engagement | U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir. |
Following the attacks, India conducted precision strikes on Pakistani military targets, including command centers, radar installations, and weapon storage facilities. Indian officials emphasized that these strikes were targeted and aimed at minimizing civilian casualties. The Indian Air Force and Army have been placed on high alert, and additional security measures have been implemented across the border regions.
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict. Countries including China, Saudi Arabia, and the United States have urged both India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further violence. The United Nations has also called for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic negotiations.
The targeted airbases—Pathankot, Bathinda, and Udhampur—have been focal points in previous conflicts:
- Pathankot: In 2016, Pathankot Airbase was attacked by militants, leading to a significant security operation.
- Bathinda: Bathinda has been a strategic location for military operations due to its proximity to the international border.
- Udhampur: Udhampur has been targeted in past terrorist attacks, highlighting its strategic importance.
Despite the current tensions, avenues for de-escalation remain. Engaging in diplomatic dialogue, confidence-building measures, and collaborative counterterrorism initiatives can help reduce hostilities. The international community plays a crucial role in facilitating these discussions and ensuring that both India and Pakistan adhere to international norms and agreements.
The attacks on Pathankot, Bathinda, and Udhampur represent a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan. While both nations have engaged in retaliatory actions, the emphasis on diplomatic engagement offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution. The international community’s support for dialogue and restraint will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this conflict and the prospects for lasting peace in the region.
Raveena Kumari