Saturday, March 29, 2025
Lahore/Islamabad, May 8, 2025 — Pakistan shut down airspace over Lahore and Islamabad late last night, fearing new Indian airstrikes. This sudden move shows growing anxiety after India’s powerful “Operation Sindoor” destroyed terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) confirmed it suspended all commercial flights from the two major airports. However, flights from Karachi continue as normal. On Wednesday, Pakistan had already announced a 48-hour nationwide airspace closure. The extension over key cities suggests the government expects further conflict.
India launched Operation Sindoor on April 22 after terrorists killed 26 civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Indian forces responded with a night raid on nine major terror hubs in Pakistan and PoK.
Air Force jets, Navy units, and Army commandos worked together in the operation. Indian officials reported they killed around 90 terrorists. The mission wiped out facilities used by Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called India’s actions “a declaration of war.” He warned that his country will respond if needed. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif said they prefer peace, but will target only Indian military bases if forced to act.
India, on the other hand, stated that its mission followed global anti-terror norms. Pakistan claimed that the strikes killed 31 civilians and injured many more, though independent sources have not confirmed this.
In India’s border states like Punjab, authorities shut down schools and postponed exams. Security agencies remain on high alert.
As the situation worsens, world leaders watch closely. Analysts are asking whether a second Trump administration would change America’s stance. Diplomatic pressure may play a key role in calming tensions before full-scale conflict erupts.
