Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 8 pm tonight, marking his first public statement since the ceasefire announcement that followed four days of intense hostilities with Pakistan. The address comes amid heightened national security concerns following Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives.
The ceasefire, announced on May 10, aims to restore calm along the Line of Control (LoC) and international border after a series of cross-border skirmishes involving artillery exchanges, drone incursions, and missile strikes. The latest flare-up comes in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, which Indian security officials have linked to terror groups operating from Pakistani territory. In response, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist hideouts and support infrastructure across the border.
Operation Sindoor: A swift retaliation
Operation Sindoor was launched by India on the intervening night of May 6 and 7 as a robust response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives. Indian armed forces, in a coordinated effort, targeted nine terror sites located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), eliminating over 100 terrorists in the process. The strikes aimed at dismantling terrorist networks believed to be responsible for the Pahalgam attack, which India has attributed to Pakistan-based terror groups.
As the operation unfolded, Pakistan retaliated by attempting strikes on multiple Indian military installations on May 8, 9, and 10. The targeted bases included several key locations, heightening regional tension and triggering fears of escalation. However, the Indian Armed Forces launched a fierce counter-attack, striking Pakistani military installations at Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, and Chunian. In addition, precision-guided munitions were deployed to neutralise radar sites at Pasrur and the Sialkot aviation base, causing substantial damage to Pakistan’s strategic infrastructure.
Major losses and strategic gains
Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai stated that between 35 and 40 Pakistani military personnel were killed in the combat, adding that New Delhi had successfully achieved its strategic objectives. Ghai is scheduled to speak with his Pakistani counterpart later this evening, marking the second communication between military officials since Saturday.
Ceasefire and the way forward
The ceasefire, announced two days ago, is seen as a diplomatic effort to stabilise the situation and prevent further conflict. PM Modi's address is expected to focus on the outcome of Operation Sindoor, India's preparedness against cross-border terrorism, and the government's commitment to maintaining peace while safeguarding national security.