Pakistan temporarily closes airspace following India’s Operation Sindoor

On May 7, 2025, India launched "Operation Sindoor," a military operation targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). This was in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which occurred on April 22, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 26 people. The operation aimed to destroy nine terror camps deep inside Pakistan and PoK, ensuring minimal damage to civilian infrastructure and avoiding loss of innocent lives. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefed the media, explaining that the mission was meant to bring justice to the victims of the attack. The chosen targets were carefully selected to prevent harm to civilians and their properties.

Pakistan closes airspace temporarily

Following the strikes, Pakistan took immediate measures by shutting down its airspace over Islamabad and Lahore. Flights in and out of these areas were redirected to Karachi. Initially, Pakistan declared the airspace would remain closed for 48 hours. However, after a brief closure of about eight hours, the airspace was reopened, and domestic and international flights resumed their operations. Despite this, Lahore's airspace was closed again for 24 hours as a precaution. Karachi’s Jinnah Airport witnessed long queues of passengers, as many flights, delayed by the closure, were departing or arriving.

A Civil Aviation Authority representative mentioned that flights coming from West Asia and other regions operated on schedule after the airspace was reopened. International flights continued their routes, including one from Uzbekistan Airlines that flew from Tashkent and reached Delhi by passing through Lahore.
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, Delhi Airport issued a travel advisory. The airport warned passengers about possible disruptions due to the changing airspace conditions. Travelers were advised to check with their respective airlines for updates and alternative travel arrangements. The airport authorities assured the public that they were working closely with airlines and Air Traffic Control (ATC) to minimize disruptions and ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.
While flights resumed gradually, the airspace disruptions caused delays and cancellations across Pakistan and nearby regions. More than 300 flights were canceled, and at least 25 airports were shut temporarily, affecting both domestic and international travel. These disruptions were part of the security measures following the airstrikes in Pakistan. The situation continued to evolve, with authorities focusing on managing the flow of air traffic while ensuring that passengers were informed of any changes.

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Operation Sindoor and India's defense strategy

Operation Sindoor represents a decisive move in India's defense strategy against terrorism. The Indian armed forces, under the guidance of top officials like Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, emphasized that the operation was a direct response to the terror attack in Pahalgam. The Indian government had previously made it clear that it would not tolerate cross-border terrorism and would take decisive actions when necessary. By targeting the terror camps in Pakistan and PoK, the Indian government sent a strong message about its zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism.

This operation also highlighted the cooperation between India's military forces, intelligence agencies, and foreign policy officials. The aim was to neutralize terrorist infrastructure without affecting the civilian population in the affected regions. The Indian government later expressed its commitment to protecting the lives of its citizens while fighting terrorism.
Following the airstrikes, there was significant international attention on the situation. India's military action was met with reactions from various countries. India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, and Colonel Sophiya Qureshi briefed the media, explaining the mission's objectives and the careful planning involved. They made it clear that the operation was not meant to escalate tensions but to target the terrorist infrastructure responsible for the Pahalgam attack.

Indian officials also held discussions with international counterparts, particularly with Japan, France, and Spain. They shared their strategy of "zero terror tolerance" and reinforced India's commitment to protecting its citizens from cross-border terrorism. The Indian government has also reiterated that it will continue to take strong actions to safeguard national security.
Pakistan’s reaction to the airstrikes was mixed. While the country initially closed its airspace, it later resumed normal air traffic operations after ensuring the safety of passengers. The closure of airspace and the temporary halt in flights were intended as precautionary measures to avoid any further escalations. Pakistan's response also included criticism of India's actions, with some officials suggesting that such military actions could lead to further tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister and military officials have emphasized their right to defend the nation against any threats. However, many international observers have called for restraint and urged both countries to engage in dialogue to prevent the situation from escalating further.
In light of Operation Sindoor, India remains on high alert. The government continues to prioritize national security and has made it clear that it will take all necessary steps to protect its citizens from terrorist attacks. The ongoing security drills across major cities like Delhi and Mumbai are part of the country's efforts to ensure readiness in case of any further escalation. These drills are a way for the government to prepare for possible emergencies and minimize potential risks to public safety.

The Indian military has stated that its primary focus is on ensuring the safety of its citizens while dealing with the threat of terrorism. As part of this ongoing strategy, India is expected to continue carrying out operations to eliminate terrorist threats wherever they are found, even if it means taking military action.
India’s Operation Sindoor is a significant development in the ongoing fight against terrorism. While the strikes targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK, they also caused temporary disruptions in air travel, particularly in Pakistan. The response from both countries has heightened tensions, with each side emphasizing its right to defend its interests. However, India’s military action was a clear message that it will continue to take strong measures to protect its people from cross-border terrorism. As the situation continues to unfold, both nations remain on high alert, with the international community closely watching developments.