 |
| Foto:Airbase Pakistan |
VISTORBELITUNG.COM,Lahore, Pakistan – The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) successfully intercepted and neutralized an incoming missile allegedly launched by India near Rafiqui Airbase earlier today, according to military officials. The incident has escalated tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, already locked in a long-standing territorial dispute over Kashmir.
Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Ahmed Sharif, confirmed that the country’s air defense systems detected and destroyed the missile before it could reach its target.
“At approximately 05:30 local time, our radars identified a hostile projectile entering Pakistani airspace near the Rafiqui Airbase. The missile was promptly intercepted by our air defense network,” Sharif stated in a press briefing.
No casualties or infrastructure damage were reported, but the attempted strike has raised concerns over renewed hostilities between India and Pakistan.
As of now, the Indian government has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, sources within the Indian military suggested that the launch may have been a "technical malfunction" during a routine test.
Pakistani authorities dismissed this claim, calling it a "blatant violation of sovereignty" and warning of severe consequences if further provocations occur.
The international community has urged restraint from both nations. The United Nations Secretary-General called for an immediate de-escalation, while the U.S. State Department encouraged dialogue to prevent further conflict.
China, a close ally of Pakistan, expressed "deep concern" over the incident and emphasized the need for peaceful resolution. Meanwhile, India’s Western allies have remained cautious, awaiting further details before making formal statements.
This latest incident follows years of strained relations, including the 2019 aerial skirmish after the Pulwama attack and multiple ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC). Analysts warn that such provocations could spiral into a larger conflict if not diplomatically contained.
Pakistan has summoned the Indian Charge d'Affaires in Islamabad to file a formal protest. Military experts suggest both nations may reinforce their air defenses along the border in the coming days.
As the situation develops, the world watches closely, hoping for de-escalation in one of the globe’s most volatile regions.