In the latest briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs, Pakistan's drone attacks across Indian states were confirmed. The panel was once again led by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh.
In this briefing, the Indian government confirmed that Pakistan used Turkey-made drones for its attack on Jammu and other Indian states on May 8.
The government and Armed Forces added that the Pakistani drone attacks were targeting Indian military spaces across northern and western states - triggering blackouts and air raid sirens from Jammu in J&K to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan.
Operation Sindoor Briefing | Key Points
Multiple violations of the Indian airspace across the Western border while targeting Indian military infrastructure. Drone intrusions were carried out by Pakistan from Leh to Sir Creek in Gujarat.
A total of 300-400 drones were reported by the government across 36 locations along the International Border and Line of Control.
"Later in the night an armed UAV of Pakistan attempted to attack Bhatinda Military Station, which was detected and foiled," said Wng Cdr Singh, adding that in response, India destroyed an air defence radar in Pakistan.
Injuries and losses to Indian armed forces were reported to Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan also suffered heavy losses, the IAF commander added.
The Indian government has further accused Pakistan of using civilians are human shields. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh added that Pakistani airspace was functioning for civilian airlines, bringing danger to those travelling over the airspace. Adding further, the IAF commander added that the Indian airspace had been closed during the Pakistani attacks.
The MEA further added that the Kartarpur Corridor has been shut indefinitely amid the rising tensions.
Foreign Secretary Misri reiterated that India has not targeted any religious places in Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pakistani forces have targeted religious sites such as gurudwaras in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch. The MEa official further added that Christian schools and sites were also attacked along the LoC.
Misri's statements come as an effort to combat and dismiss disinformation spread through Pakistan and its media.
Following the Pahalgam attack, tensions between India and Pakistan have reached a new boiling point. On April 22, 26 tourists were in Pahalgam's Baisaran valley after terrorists opened fire.
