In a significant escalation of hostilities, India has launched retaliatory strikes against Pakistan following a series of drone attacks that targeted 26 locations across Indian territory. The Indian government reported that these drone strikes, which occurred on May 9, impacted areas along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border, including regions from Baramulla in the north to Bhuj in the south. One notable incident involved a drone strike in Firozpur, Punjab, resulting in severe injuries to a civilian family. Rajouri's Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Raj Kumar Thappa died after his house was hit by Pakistani shelling on Saturday morning.

Pakistan launched "Operation Bunyan al-Marsus," claiming to target Indian military installations, including airfields in Pathankot and Udhampur. The Pakistani military reported that these retaliatory strikes were in response to India's earlier actions and alleged targeting of Pakistani airbases.

The conflict has led to significant disruptions in civilian life. India has closed 32 airports to civilian flights until May 15 as a precautionary measure. Additionally, the United States has issued an advisory for its citizens and consulate staff in Lahore, Pakistan, recommending evacuation or sheltering in place due to the escalating tensions.

International bodies, including the G7, have called for restraint and dialogue between the two nuclear-armed nations to prevent further escalation. Omar Abdullah reacted to the calls of de-escalation between India and Pakistan by the international community. He said in a post on X, "I'm not sure how the 'International Community' thinks the current tension in the subcontinent will be de-escalated when the IMF essentially reimburses Pakistan for all the ordnance it is using to devastate Poonch, Rajouri, Uri, Tangdhar and so many other places."