ISPR Chief Claims India Targeted and Damaged Pakistan’s Neelum-Jhelum Dam
Tensions Escalate as Pakistan Accuses India of Unprovoked Attacks
In a significant escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), revealed in a media briefing on Wednesday that India launched unprovoked attacks on Pakistani territory during the night of May 6-7. This aggression included strikes on six different locations, notably targeting places of worship and civilian areas, resulting in the deaths of at least 26 civilians and injuries to 46 others.
During the briefing, Lt Gen Chaudhry condemned the recent attacks, highlighting the targeting of the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project. “Does international and war law allow targeting the water reserves of a country?” he questioned, implying a violation of international principles by India.
The military spokesman specifically mentioned that Indian forces attacked cities such as Ahmedpur East and Muridke, describing these incidents as indicators of the "Hindutva mindset" of the Modi government. He confirmed that, during the attacks, numerous domestic and international flights were operating in Pakistani airspace, underlining the dangerous nature of the situation.
In response, the Pakistan Air Force acted decisively, shooting down five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft and a MiG-29, in regions such as Bathinda, Jammu, and Srinagar. "The Indian planes were shot down when the enemy attacked Pakistan," Lt Gen Chaudhry stated, informing the public of the swift military response.
Additionally, the Pakistani army retaliated against key Indian military positions, successfully destroying an Infantry Brigade Headquarters and various enemy checkpoints. Reports indicated that as many as 50 Indian soldiers fled the Jolly Post during the counterstrike.
“Our armed forces delivered a robust response in a short time,” affirmed Lt Gen Chaudhry, asserting that all Pakistani military assets remain secured. He emphasized the importance of transparency, announcing that scheduled visits by media representatives to areas targeted by Indian forces would counteract any misinformation from India.
In a closing statement, the ISPR spokesperson noted that while Pakistan does not seek war, it is fully prepared to defend itself against aggression. He called on regional and global stakeholders to acknowledge India’s provocative actions and work towards de-escalation.
