The situation in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir is rapidly deteriorating after ten powerful explosions rocked the Srinagar International Airport on May 9, 2025, causing panic among local residents. Sirens sounded in the city and traces of flying shells lit up the sky above Srinagar, Reuters reported, raising fears of a new escalation in the conflict between India and Pakistan. Tensions along the Line of Control have reached critical levels, threatening to escalate into a full-scale confrontation.

According to an Al Jazeera correspondent in Indian-administered Kashmir, the blasts occurred shortly after locals spotted unidentified objects in the sky, believed to be missiles or drones. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic situation: the streets of Srinagar were filled with crowds of people seeking shelter, and sirens continued to blare, adding to the sense of impending danger. According to The Times of India, the strikes damaged several buildings near the airport, and local authorities are evacuating nearby residents. The Indian military has not yet confirmed the exact number of casualties, but reported intercepting several air targets.

The escalation in Srinagar is the latest in a series of clashes between India and Pakistan. As The Guardian notes, both sides have been using artillery and drones along the Line of Control in recent weeks. Posts on Platform X point to a series of attacks in other Kashmiri cities, including Kotli, Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot, where an estimated 15 ballistic and cruise missiles were used. India accuses Pakistan of supporting terrorist groups that plan attacks on civilians, while Pakistan claims provocations by Indian forces. This mutual rhetoric only adds fuel to the fire, hindering attempts at de-escalation.

India has responded to the escalation with unprecedented measures. According to The Times of India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has suspended operations at 32 airports until May 15, 2025, citing the threat of further attacks. New Delhi has been placed on high alert, with patrols stepped up and strategic sites under increased protection. Pakistan has also tightened security in major cities, including Islamabad and Lahore, urging citizens to avoid public places. The economic impact of the conflict is becoming increasingly tangible: according to Bloomberg, the Indian stock market is in decline and the Pakistani rupee continues to weaken.