Pakistan Launches “Operation Bunyan al-Marsus” Amid Escalating Tensions with India
On May 10, 2025, Pakistan officially initiated a large-scale military campaign named Operation Bunyan al-Marsus in response to escalating hostilities with India. The operation, whose name translates from Arabic as “Unbreakable Wall,” is rooted in a Quranic verse (61:4) symbolizing unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Background: Rising Tensions and the Pahalgam Attack
The immediate catalyst for the current escalation was a terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 28 Hindu pilgrims. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militant groups, specifically The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba. Although the group later denied responsibility, claiming their communications had been compromised, the incident significantly heightened tensions between the two nations.
India’s “Operation Sindoor” and Pakistan’s Retaliation
In retaliation for the Pahalgam attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistani-administered Kashmir, including the Nur Khan air base near Islamabad. These strikes reportedly resulted in civilian casualties, with Pakistan claiming that 31 civilians were killed, including worshippers in mosques.
Pakistan’s response came in the form of Operation Bunyan al-Marsus, involving missile and drone strikes on 25 military targets across Indian states and Indian-administered Kashmir. The operation utilized Fateh medium-range missiles and drones, marking a significant escalation in military engagement between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Escalation and International Concerns
The conflict has rapidly intensified, with both nations engaging in aerial dogfights and artillery exchanges along the Line of Control (LoC). Reports indicate that over 60 individuals have been killed, including civilians on both sides. India has mobilized additional military forces, including the reserve Territorial Army, in anticipation of further conflict.
International actors, including the G7, China, and the United States, have expressed deep concern over the escalating situation, urging both countries to exercise maximum restraint. Despite these appeals, both India and Pakistan have maintained a firm stance, with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convening a meeting of the National Command Authority, which oversees nuclear decisions. Live Updates About Operation Bunyan al-Marsus
Conclusion
Operation Bunyan al-Marsus represents a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan over the disputed region of Kashmir. As both nations continue to engage in military operations, the risk of a broader conflict looms large. The international community’s calls for de-escalation underscore the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to prevent further loss of life and maintain regional stability.