Srinagar, India — A series of ten explosions were reported near the Srinagar International Airport on Friday, raising concerns amid escalating tensions in the region. Local officials confirmed that these blasts followed a series of blackouts triggered by what appeared to be projectiles over the city of Jammu, reportedly observed earlier in the day.
Additionally, explosions were also reported in Amritsar, a prominent city in Punjab, which lies adjacent to the Kashmir region. An Indian military representative indicated that drones had been sighted and were currently being intercepted as part of ongoing security efforts.
The incidents occur against a backdrop of heightened conflict between India and Pakistan along the Line of Control in Kashmir. This week has seen a significant spike in military activity, intensifying fears of a broader conflict in the area. Earlier, India conducted missile strikes targeting sites in Pakistan and territories administered by Pakistan as a response to a deadly attack in Kashmir that killed 26 individuals, primarily Indian tourists, last month.
The Indian government stated that these strikes aimed to dismantle nine sites believed to be associated with terrorist infrastructure. However, Pakistan has repudiated claims of its involvement in the previous attack, asserting that those sites were not connected to militant operations.
Casualty reports indicate that around 48 individuals have lost their lives since the military escalations began, though these figures have not been independently verified. The recent wave of violence is troubling for both nations, with citizens on high alert and increasingly anxious about the potential for escalated hostilities.
In response to the growing unrest, India has suspended its premier cricket tournament, the Indian Premier League, while the Pakistan Super League has relocated the remainder of its events to the United Arab Emirates, further illustrating the impact of the ongoing conflict on regional sports and culture.
Amid these developments, the United States has emphasized its commitment to remaining in close communication with both countries. Officials have reiterated the importance of dialogue and de-escalation as the situation remains precarious.
The unfolding events in Kashmir continue to draw international scrutiny, with many observers closely monitoring the situation for any signs of resolution or further deterioration.