On Thursday, tensions between South Asia’s two nuclear-armed neighbors spiked dramatically when both Pakistan and India accused each other of carrying out cross-border drone strikes, raising concerns of an imminent military confrontation.
Pakistan’s military spokesperson reported that drones originating in Indian territory entered Pakistani airspace overnight and caused “minor structural damage” to a civilian area, with air defense units quickly responding by driving away the drones without incident.
“India has continued its provocations and violations, infringing upon international law and violating Pakistani sovereignty,” read a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Any further incursion will be met with swift military retaliation.
Indian officials responded to these claims with claims that drones believed to be operated by Pakistan-based groups were seen near military installations in Jammu and Kashmir and intercepted. One drone was shot down by air defense units before crossing over, according to India’s Ministry of Defence; another returned back across before engaging.
“These acts of aggression are being committed with intent to disrupt regional peace,” according to a senior Indian defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “India will protect its territory and citizens with full zeal.”
Mutual accusations hurled against each other within hours have caused great alarm within diplomatic circles. Both governments have summoned each other’s top envoys in protest while foreign embassies in New Delhi and Islamabad are keeping close tabs on events.
Footage posted to social media appeared to show low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles operating near both countries’ border regions, though no independent verification has been provided. Residents on either side of the Line of Control reported hearing loud mechanical sounds and seeing flashes of light in the night sky.
United Nations officials as well as representatives from several foreign governments – including the US and China – have called for restraint between India and Pakistan, saying “we urge both India and Pakistan to avoid taking actions which escalate tension, engaging through dialogue instead,” as stated by a spokesperson of UN Secretary-General.
This incident comes amid already high tensions following recent violence in Indian-administered Kashmir and military buildup along the Line of Control (LoC). Defense analysts caution that increasing use of drones for cross-border operations could mark a dangerous new phase in Indo-Pakistan hostilities.
“Neither side are satisfied with mere surveillance anymore, as both sides push boundaries,” noted South Asia security expert Dr. Farah Ali. “One miscalculation could have catastrophic results.”
As both militaries are on high alert, both the region and world prepare themselves for what may come.