Islamabad: A wave of fear and uncertainty has swept across Pakistan following India’s covert military strike, codenamed Operation Sindoor, with its emotional and strategic impact visible not only on the ground but also in the highest echelons of the country’s leadership.
During a tense parliamentary session on Thursday, Pakistani Member of Parliament Tahir Iqbal broke down in tears while addressing the House. Amid rising tensions, he emotionally pleaded for divine intervention, exclaiming, “Ya Khuda, Aaj Bacha Lo (Oh God, Save Us Today),” before continuing, “We pray to Allah for our safety.” His breakdown captured the nation’s growing anxiety, particularly in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir and border areas.
Pakistan Suspends Flight Operations Across Major Cities
In response to the escalating situation and citing “operational issues” and “increased security threats,” the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) announced the suspension of all domestic and international flights from key airports in Islamabad, Lahore, Sialkot, and Karachi until 6 PM.
According to PAA officials, the decision was made following India’s reported drone installations and strikes in multiple locations within Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The airspace lockdown underscores the gravity of the moment as emergency sirens blared across Islamabad on Thursday morning.
Pakistan Army Reports Drone Incursions and Airspace Violations
The Pakistan Army claimed it had intercepted and shot down several Indian Harop drones over cities including Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. Multiple eyewitnesses reported hearing explosions in these areas, while security officials said drones were also neutralized over Gujranwala, Attock, and Bahawalpur in Punjab; Umerkot, Ghotki, and Miano in Sindh; and Chor in Balochistan.
Civilian Panic and National Tensions Rise
The combination of emotional appeals from lawmakers, widespread airspace closures, and reports of aerial incursions has sent shockwaves across Pakistan. Social media was flooded with videos and reactions capturing the palpable fear among citizens, particularly in sensitive border regions.
While Indian officials have not officially confirmed details of Operation Sindoor, the developments have sparked regional concerns over a possible escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
