Rawalpindi Airport Reels from Indian Missile Strikes

Missile Strikes Near Rawalpindi Airport Heighten India-Pakistan Tensions

Rawalpindi – June 2025: Bilateral tensions between India and Pakistan have surged to dangerous levels following alleged missile attacks on key sites close to Rawalpindi Airport. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in an unusual and firm address, confirmed that Indian BrahMos missiles struck strategic locations late last night, sparking grave concerns over the nation’s air defense preparedness.

According to officials, the targeted areas included infrastructure linked to aviation and nearby military installations. While there were no confirmed civilian fatalities, eyewitnesses and local sources reported several injuries along with widespread panic across residential zones adjacent to the airport.

In his national address, PM Shehbaz termed the missile incident a “grave act of aggression” and emphasized that Pakistan retains the right to retaliate “when and where it sees fit.” He acknowledged the breach of Pakistani airspace and labeled the act a deliberate provocation that could have escalated further.

Defense analysts have called the episode a wake-up call for Pakistan’s strategic command. The fact that high-speed BrahMos missiles evaded interception has raised alarm over radar efficacy and response protocols. Experts are now examining gaps in missile defense systems, communication flow, and strategic early warning measures.

Parliament also witnessed heated debate, with opposition leaders demanding transparency and an independent inquiry into the failure to detect and neutralize incoming threats. Calls for urgent upgrades to national air defense infrastructure were echoed by several lawmakers.

India has so far remained officially silent on this matter. However, Indian media reports hint that the strikes could be linked to ongoing friction along the Line of Control (LoC), particularly recent incidents in the Kashmir region.

International voices, including UN observers and regional stakeholders, have appealed for calm, urging both sides to avoid further escalation. Meanwhile, security remains tight in the Rawalpindi area, with increased military patrols and surveillance near critical infrastructure.

This latest confrontation marks one of the most serious cross-border military escalations in recent times, with potential implications for long-term regional stability.