India launched Operation Sindur, targeting and destroying Pakistani airbases. Pakistan was preparing a retaliatory strike when India launched a second wave of attacks. Saudi Arabia attempted mediation.
Pakistan: Amidst ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, a startling revelation has emerged. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar, admitted that the Indian attacks took Pakistan by surprise. He confirmed that Pakistan was planning a counter-offensive before the Indian strikes, but India acted first.
Ishaq Dar's Revelation
In an interview, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar, acknowledged that the Indian air strikes put Pakistan on the defensive before it could retaliate. He stated that the Prime Minister had authorized a counter-attack, and plans were in place. However, India struck the Noor Khan Airbase and the Shorkot Airbase at 2:30 AM, preempting Pakistan's response.
Saudi Prince's Call
Dar revealed in the interview that 45 minutes after the Indian attacks, he received a call from Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal. The Saudi Prince inquired whether Dar was authorized to speak with India's Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar. Dar agreed, stating that Pakistan was willing to cease hostilities if India did the same. Subsequently, the Saudi Prince spoke with Jaishankar and informed Dar of the conversation.
Seeking Assistance from the US and Qatar
Dar admitted that Pakistan sought diplomatic support not only from Saudi Arabia but also from countries like the United States and Qatar. Pakistan feared that continued Indian attacks could escalate the situation, prompting it to appeal for international assistance.
Operation Sindur: India's Retaliation
On April 22nd, a terrorist attack in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. India responded on the night of May 7th with Operation Sindur. This operation involved precise missile and drone strikes on terrorist camps and military installations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Pakistan's Failed Counter-Offensive
Pakistan attempted retaliatory strikes on May 8th, 9th, and 10th. However, the Indian military was prepared and effectively countered each attack. Following this, Pakistan ceased its attacks and appealed for a ceasefire with India.
Shahbaz Sharif Acknowledges India's Advantage
Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shahbaz Sharif, also acknowledged that India launched the first attacks, targeting several Pakistani installations. He stated that Pakistan had planned a counter-offensive for 4:30 AM on May 10th, but India acted preemptively. The Rawalpindi airport and other key locations were targeted by India.
