Context:

The conflict between India and Pakistan has sharply escalated with both countries accusing each other of initiating attacks on military bases. Pakistan reported that India targeted three of its air bases, prompting retaliatory missile strikes from Pakistan on Indian military sites. India described its actions as a response to Pakistani attacks on multiple locations using various military technologies. Despite calls for de-escalation from the United States and other international actors, tensions remain high, with both sides showing readiness to continue military engagement if provoked. Diplomatic efforts have yet to produce a resolution, and both nations are under pressure to avoid further escalation that threatens regional stability.

Dive Deeper:

• Pakistan accused India of launching air-to-surface missiles at three of its air bases, including a significant installation near Islamabad, leading to large explosions and visible fireballs in Rawalpindi.

• In retaliation, Pakistan utilized short-range surface-to-surface missiles targeting Indian military locations such as air bases and a missile storage facility, declaring their actions as 'an eye for an eye'.

• India countered by stating its military strikes were in response to a series of attacks by Pakistan involving drones and fighter planes, which resulted in limited damage to four Indian air force bases.

• The confrontation has intensified since Indian airstrikes in Pakistan earlier in the week, which were justified by India as a response to terrorist attacks allegedly harbored by Pakistan, though Pakistan denied any involvement.

• International diplomatic pressure from countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and the Group of 7, alongside the U.S. Secretary of State's calls for de-escalation, has not yet led to a breakthrough in reducing tensions.

• India and Pakistan, having a history of conflict over Kashmir, are involved in one of the most significant military engagements in decades, with fears of further escalation among their populations.

• Both nations' foreign ministers have engaged with U.S. officials, expressing a willingness to de-escalate provided the other side also refrains from further aggression, but mutual blame persists, complicating peace efforts.