Escalating Tensions: Drones, Artillery, and Ceasefires in South Asia

In an alarming escalation of military conflict, India and Pakistan accused each other of new attacks on Friday. The hostilities, involving drones and artillery, mark the worst fighting between the nuclear-armed neighbors in nearly thirty years.

Clashes erupted after India struck locations in Pakistan, claiming they were terrorist camps responsible for a deadly attack on Hindu tourists in Indian Kashmir. Despite Pakistani denials, cross-border fire, drone intrusions, and missile exchanges have resulted, with nearly fifty casualties reported so far.

In response, civilians have fled border areas, and cities have been hit by blackouts and sirens, prompting India to suspend its prestigious cricket tournament. International powers, including the U.S. and China, have urged both nations to de-escalate tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)