Omar Abdullah Condemns Escalating Drone Tensions with Pakistan

In a strong condemnation of Pakistan's alleged drone strikes targeting civilians, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah warned on Friday that continued aggression could severely impact Pakistan. Speaking amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, Abdullah stressed that Pakistan would face significant repercussions if it persists with such actions.

Abdullah highlighted that such attacks had not occurred in Jammu since the 1971 War and lauded the Indian defense forces for intercepting and neutralizing all drones. Allegedly aimed at an ammunition depot in Anantnag district, the attacks were thwarted by swift action from Indian forces, Abdullah noted.

Abdullah reiterated that the conflict was not initiated by India and referenced the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 innocent lives, as the provocation for India's measured response through Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The Chief Minister criticized Pakistan's actions as an escalation attempt and advised de-escalation for normalization. Abdullah warned Pakistan would endure severe consequences if it continued, urging a return to peace.

The escalating tensions saw Pakistan using what sources described as Hamas-style missiles targeting Jammu, echoing techniques used in other conflicts. The retaliation followed India's Operation Sindoor, a direct response to previous terrorism in Pahalgam.

On Thursday, Indian forces shot down over 50 Pakistani drones during a counter-drone operation along the LoC and IB, ANI sources reported. The operations effectively neutralized Pakistan's large-scale attack efforts, underscoring the capability of India's military defenses.

(With inputs from agencies.)