Late Tuesday night, Pakistan shelled villages in the Mendhar area of Poonch. As a result, three civilians died, including a woman. Officials identified them as Mohd Adil, Saleem Hussain, and Ruby Kour.

Unprovoked Firing Begins

According to an official, “Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing including Artillery shelling… Indian Army are responding in proportionate manner.” They opened fire from across the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) without provocation.

Injuries Reported in Kupwara

In Kupwara’s Salamabad village, five civilians sustained injuries. Additionally, around 10 homes were damaged in Dhakki village near the LoC. The shelling began after midnight and intensified quickly.

India Targeted Terror Camps

Earlier that day, Indian forces launched airstrikes on nine terror camps. These were in retaliation for the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people. Following this, Pakistan responded with heavy artillery shelling.

First Use of Heavy Shells in Weeks

This marked the first use of heavy artillery in Uri and Kupwara in nearly two weeks. As sirens blared across Srinagar, anti-aircraft fire echoed through the Valley. Accordingly, Srinagar Airport suspended all civilian flights.

Ceasefire Repeatedly Violated

Pakistan has already violated the February 2021 ceasefire deal 15 times in 2025. However, recent attacks have hit multiple points and show signs of escalation. Unlike earlier, brief exchanges, these are more intense and frequent.

Tensions Remain High

Officials believe Pakistan is trying to provoke a larger conflict. Notably, they have sent reinforcements along the LoC to strengthen their positions.