The conflict between India and Pakistan in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir has escalated into intense aerial clashes, threatening to escalate into a full-scale war between the nuclear powers. Pakistan's military said its air defenses shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three Dassault Rafale jets, a Su-30MKI and a MiG-29, and neutralized a drone in a major attack by the Indian Air Force. India, for its part, has categorically denied the claims as propaganda and has reported successful strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan.

According to Pakistan's Geo TV, India has deployed 72 warplanes to strike targets in Pakistani-administered Kashmir, including militant camps that New Delhi blames for the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack that killed 26 tourists. A Pakistani military spokesman told a news conference in Islamabad that its air defense systems, including Chinese-made HQ-9 systems, had effectively repelled the attack. Unconfirmed videos have surfaced on Platform X, purportedly showing the wreckage of Indian aircraft shot down over the border area. However, Indian diplomats have dismissed these claims as "disinformation," claiming that all the aircraft returned to bases unharmed.

India, for its part, has reported success in Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7. According to The Times of India, strikes on militant camps in Pakistan killed 12 terrorists and wounded 55, in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack. Indian authorities accuse Pakistan of harbouring extremist groups responsible for destabilising Kashmir. Pakistan denies the accusations, saying India is using the attack as a pretext for escalation.

The escalation comes with unprecedented security measures. According to Reuters, India has suspended operations at 32 airports until May 15, citing the threat of air attacks. New Delhi has declared a high alert, with strategic facilities under increased security. Pakistan has closed its airspace for eight hours, paralyzing air traffic, according to Samaa TV. Platform X reports Pakistani armored vehicles moving toward the Line of Control, indicating preparations for possible ground operations.