Lauding the valour and precision of the Indian armed forces, PM Narendra Modi said, 'Operation Sindoor was achieved 100%'. Speaking to the press ahead of the Monsoon Session, the prime minister also highlighted that the country's military power has been noticed by the world. "This monsoon session is a celebration of victory. The whole world has seen the strength of India's military power. The target set by the Indian Army in Operation Sindoor was achieved 100%. Under Operation Sindoor, the houses of the masters of terrorists were razed to the ground within 22 minutes. The world has been very attracted to this new form of Made in India military power. These days, whenever I meet people of the world, the world's attraction towards the Made in India weapons being made by India is increasing," the prime minister said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;Under Operation Sindoor, the houses of the masters of terrorists were razed to the ground within 22 minutes. The world has been very attracted to this new form of Made in India military power,&quot; says Indian <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModi</a> Source: ANI <a href="https://t.co/c2PtP4ouI2">pic.twitter.com/c2PtP4ouI2</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1947161904583196993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives and numbed the country. It was the worst act of terrorism the country had endured since the 2006 Mumbai killings. “The brutal massacre in Pahalgam shocked the entire world and drew global attention to terrorism and its epicentre — Pakistan,” he continued.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-world-has-witnessed-the-strength-of-india-s-military-power-pm-modi-ahead-of-monsoon-session-1753074249822">'World has witnessed the strength of India's military power': PM Modi ahead of Monsoon Session</a>&nbsp;“This monsoon session is a celebration of victory. When I say that the season is a season of national pride and victory celebration, then hoisting the Indian tricolour at the International Space Station (ISS) for the first time is a matter of pride for every countryman. This successful journey is instilling a new enthusiasm towards science, technology and innovation in the country. It will be a success when the entire Parliament and the countrymen will join in with one voice the pride that they are experiencing," he further added.

Lauding the valour and precision of the Indian armed forces, PM Narendra Modi said, 'Operation Sindoor was achieved 100%'. Speaking to the press ahead of the Monsoon Session, the prime minister also highlighted that the country's military power has been noticed by the world

Lauding the valour and precision of the Indian armed forces, PM Narendra Modi said, 'Operation Sindoor was achieved 100%'. Speaking to the press ahead of the Monsoon Session, the prime minister also highlighted that the country's military power has been noticed by the world. "This monsoon session is a celebration of victory. The whole world has seen the strength of India's military power. The target set by the Indian Army in Operation Sindoor was achieved 100%. Under Operation Sindoor, the houses of the masters of terrorists were razed to the ground within 22 minutes. The world has been very attracted to this new form of Made in India military power. These days, whenever I meet people of the world, the world's attraction towards the Made in India weapons being made by India is increasing," the prime minister said.

Lauding the valour and precision of the Indian armed forces, PM Narendra Modi said, 'Operation Sindoor was achieved 100%'. Speaking to the press ahead of the Monsoon Session, the prime minister also highlighted that the country's military power has been noticed by the world

Operation Sindoor razed houses of the masters of terrorists: PM Modi

On Sunday (July 20), the Indian Army felicitated young Svarn Singh, who ensured the soldiers embroiled in cross-border fighting with neighbouring Pakistan during Operation Sindoor were provided with food supplies. The 10-year-old brought meals, water, ice, milk, lassi and tea for soldiers posted in Tara Wali village, Punjab. The army recognised and appreciated his efforts and decided to sponsor his education.&nbsp; “In recognition of his courage and enthusiasm, the Indian Army's Golden Arrow Division has committed to fully sponsor &nbsp;Svarn's education. During a ceremony at Ferozepur Cantonment on Saturday, Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, also felicitated the boy,” The Western Command of the Indian Army posted on X.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CapabilityDevelopment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CapabilityDevelopment</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForeverReady?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForeverReady</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationBuilding?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationBuilding</a> Lt Gen <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManojKumarKatiyar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManojKumarKatiyar</a>, PVSM, AVSM,<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArmyCommander?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArmyCommander</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WesternCommand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WesternCommand</a> visited <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoldenArrowDivision?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoldenArrowDivision</a>. He reviewed the operational readiness, infra development projects, digitisation &amp; welfare initiatives of the formation. He… <a href="https://t.co/zQqsArcXMW">pic.twitter.com/zQqsArcXMW</a>&mdash; Western Command - Indian Army (@westerncomd_IA) <a href="https://twitter.com/westerncomd_IA/status/1946608755627692369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The young boy had earlier mentioned that he wants to be a soldier when he grows up and serve his country. Speaking to news agency PTI, his father had said, "We are proud of him. Even soldiers loved him." Svarn is currently studying I class 4, and it has been learned that his actions were not an outcome of anybody else’s thought. He decided by himself to go and supply food to the soldiers fighting against Pakistan. On May 7, India launched Operation Sindoor as a retaliatory move against the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives. It was after a fortnight of Pakistan’s inaction against terror outfits operating on its soil. In the precision strikes, New Delhi destroyed terrorist infrastructure deep inside Pakistan and PoK.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-sindoor-the-pakistani-terrorist-sites-india-struck-and-why-9042624">Operation Sindoor: Why did India choose to strike Muridke, Bahawalpur and other sites?</a>&nbsp;Foreign Minister Vikram Misri, during the initial briefings, had said, "It was deemed essential that the perpetrators and planners of the 22 April attack be brought to justice. Despite a fortnight having passed since the attacks, there has been no demonstrable step from Pakistan to take action against the terror infrastructure on its territory or territory under its control."&nbsp;He added, "Instead, all it has indulged in denials and allegations. Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. Thus, there was a compulsion both to deter and to preempt." &nbsp;

10-year-old Svarn Singh served soldiers meals during Operation Sindoor recognised and felicitated by the Indian Army. The boy wants to grow up to be a soldier and serve his country. The army has decided to sponsor his education.

On Sunday (July 20), the Indian Army felicitated young Svarn Singh, who ensured the soldiers embroiled in cross-border fighting with neighbouring Pakistan during Operation Sindoor were provided with food supplies. The 10-year-old brought meals, water, ice, milk, lassi and tea for soldiers posted in Tara Wali village, Punjab. The army recognised and appreciated his efforts and decided to sponsor his education. “In recognition of his courage and enthusiasm, the Indian Army's Golden Arrow Division has committed to fully sponsor Svarn's education. During a ceremony at Ferozepur Cantonment on Saturday, Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, also felicitated the boy,” The Western Command of the Indian Army posted on X.

10-year-old Svarn Singh served soldiers meals during Operation Sindoor recognised and felicitated by the Indian Army. The boy wants to grow up to be a soldier and serve his country. The army has decided to sponsor his education.

10-year-old boy served lassi and meals to soldiers during Operation Sindoor; Indian Army to sponsor his education

Union minister Kiren Rijiju on Sunday (July 20) said that the government is willing to discuss important matters, including Operation Sindoor, during the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament starting from Monday (July 21). Addressing an all-party meeting called prior to the session, Rijiju also urged increased coordination between the government and the opposition to facilitate the smooth functioning of the House. “We are very much open to discussing important issues like Operation Sindoor in Parliament. There should be government-opposition coordination in running Parliament smoothly,” the Union minister said. &nbsp;His statement came against the backdrop of the opposition's intention to raise the controversy over US President Donald Trump's recent assertion that he brokered a peace between India and Pakistan, which resulted in a ceasefire. “Govt will respond appropriately in Parliament,” he said when asked about the opposition’s intent to bring up Trump’s remarks.&nbsp;Rijiju, who has in-charge of parliamentary affairs as well, further said the motion for removal of Justice Varma has already received strong support from lawmakers. “Number of signatures of MPs for motion to remove Justice Varma has already crossed 100,” he said. &nbsp;The monsoon session is likely to be tempestuous, with a number of controversial issues set to be raised by the opposition. The government, however, insists that it is ready for a productive and debate-filled session. During the all-party meeting, opposition leaders flagged a series of issues they will bring to prominence in Parliament, such as so-called irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, the recent terror strike at Pahalgam, and Trump's claim of mediation.&nbsp;Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi said his party had demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement in Parliament on Trump’s claim, the lapses that led to the Pahalgam attack, and the ongoing SIR process in Bihar. Sanjay Singh of the Aam Aadmi Party said he raised concerns over what he termed a “poll scam” involving the SIR exercise, and Trump's repeated assertion that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;The all-party meeting was presided over by Union minister and Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha JP Nadda, with Kiren Rijiju and MoS Arjun Ram Meghwal on behalf of the government. Representatives from Congress included Gaurav Gogoi and Jairam Ramesh, NCP (Sharad Pawar) MP Supriya Sule, DMK's TR Baalu, and Union minister Ramdas Athawale of the Republican Party of India (A).

Govt open to debate on Operation Sindoor, Trump remarks in Parliament: Rijiju

Union minister Kiren Rijiju on Sunday (July 20) said that the government is willing to discuss important matters, including Operation Sindoor, during the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament starting from Monday (July 21). Addressing an all-party meeting called prior to the session, Rijiju also urged increased coordination between the government and the opposition to facilitate the smooth functioning of the House. “We are very much open to discussing important issues like Operation Sindoor in Parliament. There should be government-opposition coordination in running Parliament smoothly,” the Union minister said. His statement came against the backdrop of the opposition's intention to raise the controversy over US President Donald Trump's recent assertion that he brokered a peace between India and Pakistan, which resulted in a ceasefire. “Govt will respond appropriately in Parliament,” he said when asked about the opposition’s intent to bring up Trump’s remarks. Rijiju, who has in-charge of parliamentary affairs as well, further said the motion for removal of Justice Varma has already received strong support from lawmakers. “Number of signatures of MPs for motion to remove Justice Varma has already crossed 100,” he said. The monsoon session is likely to be tempestuous, with a number of controversial issues set to be raised by the opposition. The government, however, insists that it is ready for a productive and debate-filled session. During the all-party meeting, opposition leaders flagged a series of issues they will bring to prominence in Parliament, such as so-called irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, the recent terror strike at Pahalgam, and Trump's claim of mediation. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi said his party had demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement in Parliament on Trump’s claim, the lapses that led to the Pahalgam attack, and the ongoing SIR process in Bihar. Sanjay Singh of the Aam Aadmi Party said he raised concerns over what he termed a “poll scam” involving the SIR exercise, and Trump's repeated assertion that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The all-party meeting was presided over by Union minister and Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha JP Nadda, with Kiren Rijiju and MoS Arjun Ram Meghwal on behalf of the government. Representatives from Congress included Gaurav Gogoi and Jairam Ramesh, NCP (Sharad Pawar) MP Supriya Sule, DMK's TR Baalu, and Union minister Ramdas Athawale of the Republican Party of India (A).

The monsoon session is expected to be stormy, with several issues likely to be brought up by the opposition. The government, however, maintains it is prepared for a productive and debate-driven session

The modern aerial combat is becoming more spoofy; what is visible on radar is no longer real. Two recent conflict zones have revealed scenarios of deception in the air. From Operation Sindoor between India and Pakistan, where Rafale jets allegedly dodged Pakistani missiles, to the contest in the airspace over Tehran, where Iran claimed to have downed Israeli F-35s, a new kind of battle is raging, one where ghost jets and phantom kills dominate the narrative. Powered by cutting-edge technologies like X-Guard and ALE-70, the traditions of aerial engagement are rewritten, giving enemies the illusion of victory, making it impossible to differentiate a real shootdown from a high-tech ruse.<h2>Operation Sindoor: X‑Guard decoy</h2>In the 4-day-long Operation Sindoor, India reportedly employed Rafale and Mirage 2000, and Su‑30MKI equipped with an Israeli X‑Guard towed fibre-optic decoy during strikes to deceive Pakistan's air defences. When deployed, X‑Guard mimics the radar signature of the jet and emits jamming signals by creating false radar returns using AI and DRFM tech, while constantly adapting its signature in real-time.According to reports, India had already acquired the X-Gard decoy system, and the May conflict was the first occasion of integrating those on a jet to enhance survivability in contested airspace.Pakistan claimed that they shot down several Rafales, but according to former U.S. pilot Ryan Bodenheimer, these were likely decoys or ghost jets, not actual jets, even advanced Chinese-origin PL-15E missiles failed to detect, demonstrating “the best spoofing and deception ever seen in combat.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> Air Force Fooled by Indian Electronic Warfare Tactics : Former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/US?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#US</a> F-15E pilot Ryan Bodenheimer has called the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianAirForce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianAirForce</a>&#39;s tactics during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindoor</a> as the &quot;best spoofing and deception we&#39;ve ever seen&quot; and he credited the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a>’s AI powered X-Guard… <a href="https://t.co/W7UcSQXvXF">pic.twitter.com/W7UcSQXvXF</a>&mdash; IDU (@defencealerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/defencealerts/status/1942106168345661495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran vs Israeli F‑35I Adir : ALE‑70 decoy</h2>In West Asia, another 12-day-long conflict unfolded between arch rivals Israel and Iran. In June 2025, Iran claimed to have shot down up to four Israeli F‑35I Adir stealth jets near Tehran; not only that, they also claimed that they had captured one of the women pilots. Israel denied the claims as propaganda. Israel stayed tight-lipped about the specifics of the incident. Iran could not present any meaningful evidence to back its claims.&nbsp;Analysts believe this might be another decoy case. According to a report by Medium, ALE-70 is a small device that is stored under a hatch next to the flare dispenser on the F-35. It creates a false target mimicking radar signatures, deploys within 2 seconds, sustains supersonic speeds, and each F‑35 could carry up to four units.<h2>So, were any jets shot down?</h2>Based on the available reports, there is no credible source that shows that India lost any jets. Iran’s claims regarding Israeli F‑35 shootdowns also lack proof. ALE‑70 decoys may have been mistaken for actual fighters. Both X‑Guard (on Rafale) and ALE‑70 (on F‑35) are sophisticated decoy systems that can imitate real jets on radar. If these systems were used successfully in recent air operations, it could explain why no actual jets have been confirmed lost despite hostile claims. In both cases, we're probably looking at phantom kills, where decoys take the hits while real jets survive.&nbsp;

From Operation Sindoor to Israel's F-35 operation in Iran, the battle in the air is no more about speed, precision, range and firepower. Discover how the two conflicts between India-Pakistan and Israel-Iran have redefined modern aerial warfare.

The modern aerial combat is becoming more spoofy; what is visible on radar is no longer real. Two recent conflict zones have revealed scenarios of deception in the air. From Operation Sindoor between India and Pakistan, where Rafale jets allegedly dodged Pakistani missiles, to the contest in the airspace over Tehran, where Iran claimed to have downed Israeli F-35s, a new kind of battle is raging, one where ghost jets and phantom kills dominate the narrative. Powered by cutting-edge technologies like X-Guard and ALE-70, the traditions of aerial engagement are rewritten, giving enemies the illusion of victory, making it impossible to differentiate a real shootdown from a high-tech ruse. Operation Sindoor: X‑Guard decoy In the 4-day-long Operation Sindoor, India reportedly employed Rafale and Mirage 2000, and Su‑30MKI equipped with an Israeli X‑Guard towed fibre-optic decoy during strikes to deceive Pakistan's air defences. When deployed, X‑Guard mimics the radar signature of the jet and emits jamming signals by creating false radar returns using AI and DRFM tech, while constantly adapting its signature in real-time. According to reports, India had already acquired the X-Gard decoy system, and the May conflict was the first occasion of integrating those on a jet to enhance survivability in contested airspace. Pakistan claimed that they shot down several Rafales, but according to former U.S. pilot Ryan Bodenheimer, these were likely decoys or ghost jets, not actual jets, even advanced Chinese-origin PL-15E missiles failed to detect, demonstrating “the best spoofing and deception ever seen in combat.”

From Operation Sindoor to Israel's F-35 operation in Iran, the battle in the air is no more about speed, precision, range and firepower. Discover how the two conflicts between India-Pakistan and Israel-Iran have redefined modern aerial warfare.

Operation Sindoor to Tehran: The shocking truth behind 'Ghost Jets' and fake kill claims

The Congress on Saturday took a sharp dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Donald Trump's claim that five jets had been lost during the recent&nbsp;India-Pakistan conflict, questioning his friendship and "huglomacy" with the US President. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh said that PM Modi must break the silence on whether&nbsp;India lost fighter jets during the conflict. "We don't want a substitute batsman," he quipped.&nbsp;"Since May 10 till today, US President Donald Trump has repeated two things 24 times. First, he stopped the war between India and Pakistan; second, &nbsp;he says that the war should stop if India and Pakistan want trade with the US... Now he has claimed something new that five fighter jets went down... The Parliament is about to begin, and the PM should break his silence... Any other leader will not do. The Congress and the entire Opposition will demand a special discussion, and the PM must answer... We don't want a substitute batsman. Only the PM must answer," he said.&nbsp;Jairam Ramesh demanded a statement by PM Modi in the parliament.&nbsp;"The sensational new revelation by President Trump this time around is that five jets may have been downed. The Prime Minister, who has had years of friendship and huglomacy with President Trump going back to Howdy Modi in Sept 2019 and Namaste Trump in Feb 2020, has to now himself make a clear and categorical statement in Parliament on what President Trump has been claiming over the past 70 days," the Congress Rajya Sabha MP posted on X.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-reiterates-india-pakistan-conflict-claim-says-5-jets-were-shot-down-1752894494296">Also read: Donald Trump's big claim on India-Pakistan conflict, Operation Sindoor: ‘5 jets were...’</a>&nbsp;Donald Trump has claimed on several occasions that it was the US that brokered a ceasefire understanding between warring India and Pakistan in May. India has refuted the claim, saying Pakistani DGMO called his Indian counterpart, seeking a cessation of hostilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;He also claimed that five jets had been downed during the aerial skirmishes.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We stopped a lot of wars. And these were serious, India and Pakistan, that were going on. Planes were being shot out of there. I think five jets were shot down, actually. These are two serious nuclear countries, and they were hitting each other. You know, it seems like a new form of warfare. You saw it recently when you looked at what we did in Iran, where we knocked out their nuclear capability, totally knocked out that," he said.&nbsp;India hasn't officially communicated that it lost aircraft. However, some of the Indian defence officials have hinted at initial losses during the four-day-long conflict.

The Congress on Saturday took a sharp dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Donald Trump's claim that five jets had been lost during the recent India-Pakistan conflict, questioning his friendship and "huglomacy" with the US President.

The Congress on Saturday took a sharp dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Donald Trump's claim that five jets had been lost during the recent India-Pakistan conflict, questioning his friendship and "huglomacy" with the US President. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh said that PM Modi must break the silence on whether India lost fighter jets during the conflict. "We don't want a substitute batsman," he quipped. "Since May 10 till today, US President Donald Trump has repeated two things 24 times. First, he stopped the war between India and Pakistan; second, he says that the war should stop if India and Pakistan want trade with the US... Now he has claimed something new that five fighter jets went down... The Parliament is about to begin, and the PM should break his silence... Any other leader will not do. The Congress and the entire Opposition will demand a special discussion, and the PM must answer... We don't want a substitute batsman. Only the PM must answer," he said. Jairam Ramesh demanded a statement by PM Modi in the parliament. "The sensational new revelation by President Trump this time around is that five jets may have been downed. The Prime Minister, who has had years of friendship and huglomacy with President Trump going back to Howdy Modi in Sept 2019 and Namaste Trump in Feb 2020, has to now himself make a clear and categorical statement in Parliament on what President Trump has been claiming over the past 70 days," the Congress Rajya Sabha MP posted on X. Also read: Donald Trump's big claim on India-Pakistan conflict, Operation Sindoor: ‘5 jets were...’ Donald Trump has claimed on several occasions that it was the US that brokered a ceasefire understanding between warring India and Pakistan in May. India has refuted the claim, saying Pakistani DGMO called his Indian counterpart, seeking a cessation of hostilities. He also claimed that five jets had been downed during the aerial skirmishes. "We stopped a lot of wars. And these were serious, India and Pakistan, that were going on. Planes were being shot out of there. I think five jets were shot down, actually. These are two serious nuclear countries, and they were hitting each other. You know, it seems like a new form of warfare. You saw it recently when you looked at what we did in Iran, where we knocked out their nuclear capability, totally knocked out that," he said. India hasn't officially communicated that it lost aircraft. However, some of the Indian defence officials have hinted at initial losses during the four-day-long conflict.

Donald Trump's ‘five jets’ downed claim: Jairam Ramesh demanded a statement by PM Modi in the parliament.

Congress takes 'huglomacy' dig at Modi over Trump's 'five jets shot down' claim

US President Donald Trump reiterated on Saturday his claim that he had stopped several wars during his presidency, including the recent India-Pakistan conflict. He also claimed that five jets were shot down during the conflict.&nbsp;"We stopped a lot of wars. And these were serious. India and Pakistan were going on. Planes were being shot out of there. I think five jets were shot down. These are two serious nuclear countries, and they were hitting each other. You know, it seems like a new form of warfare," he claimed.&nbsp;Pakistan had claimed it downed several Indian fighter jets, including Rafales, during the conflict, triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed in April. India hasn't officially responded to the unconfirmed reports. However, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan admitted to some initial losses in the conflict.&nbsp;"I think what is important is not the jet being downed but why they were being downed. The good part is that we were able to understand the tactical mistakes that we made; we remedied, rectified, and then implemented them again after two days. We flew all our jets again targeting long range," he was quoted as saying by Bloomberg in May.&nbsp;India categorically denies that the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan was US-brokered. New Delhi says that after India's tactical strikes, Pakistan's DGMO called his Indian counterpart and requested a cessation of the four-day-long hostilities.&nbsp;In June, a Navy official claimed that India had lost some jets during the conflict with Pakistan. He, however, didn't specify the number and type of aircraft India allegedly lost.&nbsp;"I do agree that we did lose some aircraft and that happened only because of the constraint given by the political leadership to not attack the military establishments and their air defences,” Captain Shiv Kumar, a navy officer, said at a seminar in Jakarta. He further said India changed its tactics after early losses and attacked Pakistan's strategic bases.&nbsp;The Indian Embassy in Jakarta later said he was quoted out of context.&nbsp;Donald Trump further said that the US ended the India-Pakistan conflict by offering trade.&nbsp;"You saw it recently when you looked at what we did in Iran, where we knocked out their nuclear capability, totally knocked out that... But India and Pakistan were going at it, and they were back and forth, and it was getting bigger and bigger, and we got it solved through trade. We said, you guys want to make a trade deal. We're not making a trade deal if you're going to be throwing around weapons, and maybe nuclear weapons, both very powerful nuclear states," he added.&nbsp;Under Operation Sindoor, India destroyed nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan reacted angrily, attacking India's civilian areas and military installations. The Indian military thwarted most of these attacks. The conflict ended after India attacked Pakistan's&nbsp;air bases.

US President Donald Trump reiterated on Saturday his claim that he had stopped several wars during his presidency, including the recent India-Pakistan conflict. He also claimed that five jets were shot down during the conflict.

US President Donald Trump reiterated on Saturday his claim that he had stopped several wars during his presidency, including the recent India-Pakistan conflict. He also claimed that five jets were shot down during the conflict. "We stopped a lot of wars. And these were serious. India and Pakistan were going on. Planes were being shot out of there. I think five jets were shot down. These are two serious nuclear countries, and they were hitting each other. You know, it seems like a new form of warfare," he claimed. Pakistan had claimed it downed several Indian fighter jets, including Rafales, during the conflict, triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed in April. India hasn't officially responded to the unconfirmed reports. However, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan admitted to some initial losses in the conflict. "I think what is important is not the jet being downed but why they were being downed. The good part is that we were able to understand the tactical mistakes that we made; we remedied, rectified, and then implemented them again after two days. We flew all our jets again targeting long range," he was quoted as saying by Bloomberg in May. India categorically denies that the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan was US-brokered. New Delhi says that after India's tactical strikes, Pakistan's DGMO called his Indian counterpart and requested a cessation of the four-day-long hostilities. In June, a Navy official claimed that India had lost some jets during the conflict with Pakistan. He, however, didn't specify the number and type of aircraft India allegedly lost. "I do agree that we did lose some aircraft and that happened only because of the constraint given by the political leadership to not attack the military establishments and their air defences,” Captain Shiv Kumar, a navy officer, said at a seminar in Jakarta. He further said India changed its tactics after early losses and attacked Pakistan's strategic bases. The Indian Embassy in Jakarta later said he was quoted out of context. Donald Trump further said that the US ended the India-Pakistan conflict by offering trade. "You saw it recently when you looked at what we did in Iran, where we knocked out their nuclear capability, totally knocked out that... But India and Pakistan were going at it, and they were back and forth, and it was getting bigger and bigger, and we got it solved through trade. We said, you guys want to make a trade deal. We're not making a trade deal if you're going to be throwing around weapons, and maybe nuclear weapons, both very powerful nuclear states," he added. Under Operation Sindoor, India destroyed nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan reacted angrily, attacking India's civilian areas and military installations. The Indian military thwarted most of these attacks. The conflict ended after India attacked Pakistan's air bases.

Operation Sindoor: India categorically denies that the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan was US-brokered.

Donald Trump's big claim on India-Pakistan conflict, Operation Sindoor: '5 jets were...'

The Indian Army has achieved a huge milestone with the Akash Prime missile on Wednesday, as it successfully destroyed two aerial high-speed unmanned targets at high altitude in Ladakh sector. India's Defence Ministry took to social media and posted impressive video of the missile being launched.&nbsp;In a post on X, the defence ministry noted that the Akash Prime is an upgraded variant of the Akash Weapon System for the Indian Army.&nbsp;The Indian Army Air Defence and DRDO achieved the milestone in conjunction with defence PSUs, including Bharat Dynamics Limited &amp; Bharat Electronics Limited, and other industry partners.&nbsp;"India has achieved a significant milestone by successfully destroying 2 Aerial High Speed Unmanned targets at high altitude in Ladakh Sector on 16th July by Akash Prime, which is the upgraded variant of Akash Weapon System for the Indian Army," the office of Defence Ministry stated in a post on X. It also shared the video of the Akash Prime missile, being launched at an altitude over 15,000 feet in Ladakh.<h2>Watch video here:</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">India has achieved a significant milestone by successfully destroying 2 Aerial High Speed Unmanned targets at high altitude in Ladakh Sector on 16th July by Akash Prime, which is the upgraded variant of Akash Weapon System for the Indian Army. <a href="https://t.co/DjJAc5uzkk">pic.twitter.com/DjJAc5uzkk</a>&mdash; रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia/status/1945778396799418637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;It was the first-ever such trial of Akash Prime at high altitudes. The weapon has been modified to operate in altitudes above 4500 metres, and with the latest upgrades, it has an indigenously developed Radio Frequency seeker, which gives radio signals to track and destroy targets.&nbsp;The Akash Prime system would form the third and fourth regiments of the Akash air defence systems in the Indian Army. The system also performed very well in thwarting aerial attacks by the Pakistani military using Chinese aircraft and Turkish drones during Operation Sindoor, according to the defence officials.&nbsp;The Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Thursday said, "Based on the operational feedback from users, various upgrades are made to improve the operational effectiveness, demonstrating the advantage of the ecosystem created for the indigenous weapon system."&nbsp;Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the Indian Army's and DRDO's achievements, saying that it is a significant boost to India's air defence capabilities, particularly for meeting high-altitude operational requirements.

It was the first-ever such trial of Akash Prime at high altitudes. The weapon has been modified to operate in altitudes above 4500 metres and has an indigenously developed Radio Frequency seeker, which gives radio signals to track and destroy targets.

The Indian Army has achieved a huge milestone with the Akash Prime missile on Wednesday, as it successfully destroyed two aerial high-speed unmanned targets at high altitude in Ladakh sector. India's Defence Ministry took to social media and posted impressive video of the missile being launched. In a post on X, the defence ministry noted that the Akash Prime is an upgraded variant of the Akash Weapon System for the Indian Army. The Indian Army Air Defence and DRDO achieved the milestone in conjunction with defence PSUs, including Bharat Dynamics Limited & Bharat Electronics Limited, and other industry partners. "India has achieved a significant milestone by successfully destroying 2 Aerial High Speed Unmanned targets at high altitude in Ladakh Sector on 16th July by Akash Prime, which is the upgraded variant of Akash Weapon System for the Indian Army," the office of Defence Ministry stated in a post on X. It also shared the video of the Akash Prime missile, being launched at an altitude over 15,000 feet in Ladakh. Watch video here:

It was the first-ever such trial of Akash Prime at high altitudes. The weapon has been modified to operate in altitudes above 4500 metres and has an indigenously developed Radio Frequency seeker, which gives radio signals to track and destroy targets.

WATCH - How India's new Akash Prime missiles destroyed two aerial targets at 15,000ft in Ladakh

After the Operation Sindoor of May 2025, India announced that it wouldn't just produce weapons for itself, it would begin exporting defence systems globally. Dr PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to PM Modi, visited the &nbsp;DRDO lab in Bengaluru to signal a high-level commitment to the staff.&nbsp;Since the turn of the decade, India has significantly boosted its defence export capabilities. In 2020-21, India's defence export stood at 8,434&nbsp;crore. Four years later, it stands at 23,622 crore, a three times increase in Defence capabilities. India exports to 80 countries defence equipment such as radar systems, artillery guns, missiles, offshore patrol vessels, bulletproof jackets, and electronic warfare equipment. Over 75 per cent of India's capital defence budget is earmarked for domestic manufacturing.Since Operation Sindoor India has not only propelled Indian indigenous defence manufacturing but has also displayed Indian missiles and weapon systems capability globally. India's Akash surface-to-air missiles intercepted enemy drones, DRDO's electronic warfare systems disrupted enemy radar, and Indian-built loitering munitions executed precision strikes without endangering the pilots.&nbsp;<h2>Major upcoming systems&nbsp;</h2>BrahMos‑II hypersonic missile: It is 1500 km in range and Mach&nbsp;8 in speed. This ambitious defence project is a multi-platform utility missile capable of being launched by land, sea, and air.AMCA stealth fighter: It is a 5th-generation jet by DRDO &amp; HAL. The first flight is expected by 2026, with serial production likely by 2032–33.Project Kusha air defence: It is a multi-layered defence system for intercepting missiles, jets, and drones up to 400 km in range, aims to match the Russian S‑400 surface-to-air missile system, and will be operational by 2028. VSHORADS: Indigenous shoulder-fired missiles with an approximate range of 6 km. It will be laced with IR seeker systems or commonly called the eye of the missile. It is a sensor used in missiles and other weapons to detect and track targets based on the infrared radiation they emit. Rudram‑2 &amp; Rudram‑3 missiles:&nbsp;&nbsp;Precision strike missiles for striking enemy radars, air defences, communication units with ranges for Rudram‑2, Rudram‑3 at 250–300 km, and 550+ km respectively.&nbsp; CLAWs DEW system:&nbsp;This is India's first Directed energy weapon laser against drones, micro‑missiles and mortars.&nbsp;These weapons, once developed and tested, can be exported globally. Over 400 defence weapons and equipment, which were in India's import list, have been delisted. India is targeting 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029. In April 2025, India has delivered the second batch of Brahmos missiles to the Philippines. Reliance Defence has secured 600 crore worth of export orders from Germany's leading defence manufacturer Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH. Given Europe's manufacturing constraints, attention to decrease reliance on the US defence exports and cost-effectiveness of Indian Defence components positions Indian defence companies in a unique advantageous position to capitalise on rising export opportunities. &nbsp;

India's Defence Exports have surged to a record number, approximately 23,622 crore ($2.76 billion) in FY 24-25. This marks a 12 % YoY increase from ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023–24. Operation Sindoor have provided a global display of Indian indigenous defence manufacturing. 

After the Operation Sindoor of May 2025, India announced that it wouldn't just produce weapons for itself, it would begin exporting defence systems globally. Dr PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to PM Modi, visited the DRDO lab in Bengaluru to signal a high-level commitment to the staff. Since the turn of the decade, India has significantly boosted its defence export capabilities. In 2020-21, India's defence export stood at 8,434 crore. Four years later, it stands at 23,622 crore, a three times increase in Defence capabilities. India exports to 80 countries defence equipment such as radar systems, artillery guns, missiles, offshore patrol vessels, bulletproof jackets, and electronic warfare equipment. Over 75 per cent of India's capital defence budget is earmarked for domestic manufacturing. Since Operation Sindoor India has not only propelled Indian indigenous defence manufacturing but has also displayed Indian missiles and weapon systems capability globally. India's Akash surface-to-air missiles intercepted enemy drones, DRDO's electronic warfare systems disrupted enemy radar, and Indian-built loitering munitions executed precision strikes without endangering the pilots. Major upcoming systems BrahMos‑II hypersonic missile: It is 1500 km in range and Mach 8 in speed. This ambitious defence project is a multi-platform utility missile capable of being launched by land, sea, and air. AMCA stealth fighter: It is a 5th-generation jet by DRDO & HAL. The first flight is expected by 2026, with serial production likely by 2032–33. Project Kusha air defence: It is a multi-layered defence system for intercepting missiles, jets, and drones up to 400 km in range, aims to match the Russian S‑400 surface-to-air missile system, and will be operational by 2028. VSHORADS: Indigenous shoulder-fired missiles with an approximate range of 6 km. It will be laced with IR seeker systems or commonly called the eye of the missile. It is a sensor used in missiles and other weapons to detect and track targets based on the infrared radiation they emit. Rudram‑2 & Rudram‑3 missiles: Precision strike missiles for striking enemy radars, air defences, communication units with ranges for Rudram‑2, Rudram‑3 at 250–300 km, and 550+ km respectively. CLAWs DEW system: This is India's first Directed energy weapon laser against drones, micro‑missiles and mortars. These weapons, once developed and tested, can be exported globally. Over 400 defence weapons and equipment, which were in India's import list, have been delisted. India is targeting 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029. In April 2025, India has delivered the second batch of Brahmos missiles to the Philippines. Reliance Defence has secured 600 crore worth of export orders from Germany's leading defence manufacturer Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH. Given Europe's manufacturing constraints, attention to decrease reliance on the US defence exports and cost-effectiveness of Indian Defence components positions Indian defence companies in a unique advantageous position to capitalise on rising export opportunities.

India's Defence Exports have surged to a record number, approximately 23,622 crore ($2.76 billion) in FY 24-25. This marks a 12 % YoY increase from ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023–24. Operation Sindoor have provided a global display of Indian indigenous defence manufacturing.&nbsp;

Operation Sindoor sparks export boom: Hypersonic missiles, stealth jets & laser weapons to give boost to India's soft power

On Wednesday (July 16), Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan lauded India’s indigenous defence equipment. Speaking at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, he shared fresh insights on Operation Sindoor, he also threw light on the country’s counter-UAS systems and how they are essential yet crucial for the terrain. He mentioned how these systems helped neutralise Pakistani drones through a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic means.&nbsp;Gen Chauhan said, “Operation Sindoor has shown us why indigenously developed counter-UAS systems built for our terrain are crucial. We must invest and build to safeguard ourselves."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi| Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan says,&quot; During <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindoor</a> , on 10th May, Pakistan used unarmed drones and loitering munitions. None of them inflicted any damage to the Indian military or civil infrastructure. Most were neutralised through a… <a href="https://t.co/517OPzCByw">pic.twitter.com/517OPzCByw</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1945332191258345508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“During Operation Sindoor, on May 10, Pakistan used unarmed drones and loitering munitions. None of them could inflict any damage to the Indian military or civil infrastructure. Most were neutralised through a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic means, and some were even recovered in almost intact condition,” he continued.&nbsp;General Anil Chauhan visited the exhibition on&nbsp;indigenisation of critical components currently being imported from foreign OEMs in the areas of UAV &amp; C-UAS.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-show-me-one-photograph-nsa-ajit-doval-demands-foreign-media-for-proof-of-destruction-in-india-post-operation-sindoor-1752221264297">NSA Doval asks foreign media for proof of destruction on Indian side</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;"When we talk about drones, what do you think these are… are they bringing an evolutionary change or a revolutionary change in warfare? I think their development is evolutionary and their employment has been very revolutionary in warfare. As the realisation of their deployment and scope increased, the Army started using drones in a revolutionary manner, you have seen this in a number of wars fought by us. Modern day conflicts proved not only their utility but their ubiquity."&nbsp;The Chief of Defence Staff spoke at length about modern warfare, its diverse nature, the equipments and how drones proved to be a game changer beyond their initial simple usage in transportation, photography, and videography.

On Wednesday (July 16), Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan lauded India’s indigenous defence equipment. Speaking at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, he shared fresh insights on Operation Sindoor.

On Wednesday (July 16), Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan lauded India’s indigenous defence equipment. Speaking at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, he shared fresh insights on Operation Sindoor, he also threw light on the country’s counter-UAS systems and how they are essential yet crucial for the terrain. He mentioned how these systems helped neutralise Pakistani drones through a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic means. Gen Chauhan said, “Operation Sindoor has shown us why indigenously developed counter-UAS systems built for our terrain are crucial. We must invest and build to safeguard ourselves."

On Wednesday (July 16), Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan lauded India’s indigenous defence equipment. Speaking at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, he shared fresh insights on Operation Sindoor.

Pakistani drones could not 'inflict any damage to Indian military': CDS General Anil Chauhan

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday (July 11) asked international media to show proof of the damage Pakistan has done to the country while the two nuclear-armed nations were embroiled in a cross-border firing. New Delhi launched Operation Sindoor as a retaliatory action after the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives on April 22.&nbsp; Speaking at the 62nd convocation of IIT Madras, Doval said the operation targeted nine terror sites across Pakistan. He highlighted it was done using indigenously developed technology like Brahmos, radars, battlefield surveillance tech, Integrated Air Command and control system (IACCS).

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Speaking on Operation Sindoor, at IIT Madras, NSA Ajit Doval slams the foreign media for their reportage on the operation. &quot;Foreign press said that Pakistan did that and this...You tell me one photograph, one image, which shows any damage to any… <a href="https://t.co/v13Pr8RuRf">pic.twitter.com/v13Pr8RuRf</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1943557480874647788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Following India’s military operation, which he said was completed in mere 23 minutes, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyan Al Marsoos in which they claimed to have destroyed sites inside the Indian territory.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-invisible-wingman-how-rafale-s-x-guard-fooled-pakistan-in-operation-sindoor-1752155619513">India’s invisible wingman: How Rafale’s X Guard fooled Pakistan in Operation Sindoor</a> Slamming the foreign media’s coverage of the conflict, he demanded, “You show me one photograph, one image, which shows any damage to any Indian (structure).” Doval said. "Foreign press said that Pakistan did that and this. You show me one photograph, one image, which shows any damage to any Indian (structure), even a glass pane having been broken.”&nbsp;As he continued talking about New York Times and other news outlets, he said, “They wrote these things and put it out things. The images only showed 13 air bases in Pakistan and before and after May 10. Whether it was in Sargodha, Rahim Yar Khan, Chaklala.”He emphasised that satellite imagery available showed only the destruction done on the Pakistani side, “What the foreign media put out was based on these images. And we are capable of doing that (damage to Pakistani air bases).” Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, after Pakistan's inaction against the terror infrastructure operating on their soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday (July 11) asked international media to show proof of the damage Pakistan has done to the country while the two nuclear-armed nations were embroiled in a cross-border firing.

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday (July 11) asked international media to show proof of the damage Pakistan has done to the country while the two nuclear-armed nations were embroiled in a cross-border firing. New Delhi launched Operation Sindoor as a retaliatory action after the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives on April 22. Speaking at the 62nd convocation of IIT Madras, Doval said the operation targeted nine terror sites across Pakistan. He highlighted it was done using indigenously developed technology like Brahmos, radars, battlefield surveillance tech, Integrated Air Command and control system (IACCS).

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday (July 11) asked international media to show proof of the damage Pakistan has done to the country while the two nuclear-armed nations were embroiled in a cross-border firing.

'Show me one photograph': NSA Doval asks foreign media for proof of destruction on Indian side post Operation Sindoor

What sets Air LORA apart is its blend of ballistic missile speed and air-launch flexibility, enabling deep precision strikes beyond enemy defences , but which Indian fighter jet can actually carry this missile?

What sets Air LORA apart is its blend of ballistic missile speed and air-launch flexibility, enabling deep precision strikes beyond enemy defences , but which Indian fighter jet can actually carry this missile?

Is Israel’s LORA missile better than BrahMos, which Indian jets can actually carry it?

In a bold and smart military move, India tricked Pakistan into believing it had shot down a Rafale fighter jet during Operation Sindoor, which was launched on May 7 in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam. What Pakistan actually hit, however, wasn’t a real aircraft—it was a high-tech decoy device known as the X-Guard, deployed from India’s Rafale jets.&nbsp;India’s Defence Secretary, R.K. Singh, confirmed in an interview that no Rafale had been shot down. Around the same time, reports also emerged suggesting that China, through its embassies, had spread false claims about the performance of French-made Rafale jets during the operation.&nbsp;So, what is this X-Guard? How did it trick Pakistan? And what do experts have to say about it?&nbsp;<h2>What is Rafale’s X-Guard?</h2>&nbsp;The X-Guard is a compact but powerful device that acts like an invisible bodyguard for the Rafale fighter jet. It is part of the jet’s electronic warfare system, designed to protect the aircraft from being hit by radar-guided missiles.&nbsp;Radar-guided missiles work by sending out radar signals that bounce off enemy aircraft. Once the missile detects the reflection, it locks on and follows the signal—much like how a bat uses echoes to find insects in the dark.&nbsp;The X-Guard is capable of fooling even the most sophisticated radar systems that guide such missiles. It can deceive both Monopulse radars and LORO (Lobe-On-Receive-Only) radars.&nbsp;Monopulse radar is a highly accurate radar system that can quickly detect both the position and speed of an aircraft. It is considered very hard to mislead.&nbsp;LORO radar, on the other hand, operates mostly in a listening mode. It tracks aircraft silently, without sending many signals, making it stealthier—but X-Guard can trick that too.&nbsp;According to Rafale’s manufacturer, X-Guard is cutting-edge, lightweight, and reusable. It is housed in a pod (a special container fixed to the jet) and can be deployed and retracted using a reel-out/reel-in mechanism. The pilot activates it when the aircraft is in a threat zone.&nbsp;<h2>How does it work?</h2>&nbsp;The X-Guard weighs about 30 kilogrammes and is connected to the jet via a 100-metre-long fibre optic cable. This connection gives the pilot real-time updates on incoming threats, and the fibre-optic system ensures it’s not disrupted by enemy jamming efforts.&nbsp;Once deployed, the X-Guard sends out a strong 360-degree jamming signal with 500 watts of power. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to confuse enemy radars.&nbsp;<h2>What does this mean?</h2>&nbsp;Strong 360-degree jamming signal:The X-Guard creates a powerful invisible signal (like a radio wave) that spreads in all directions around the aircraft—just like how a light bulb shines light in all directions, not just one. This signal is used to jam, or block, the enemy’s radar so they can’t see or track the real jet.&nbsp;500 watts of power:This is how strong the jamming signal is. For comparison, a regular household bulb is about 60 watts. So 500 watts is very powerful—strong enough to interrupt or confuse enemy radar systems from a good distance.&nbsp;Uses Artificial Intelligence (AI):The X-Guard is not a simple machine. It has AI software that can:&nbsp;&gt; Understand what kind of radar is trying to track the jet.&gt; Decide the best way to block or mislead that radar.&gt; Adjust its signals in real-time so that the enemy radar thinks it is locking on to the real jet, when it’s actually locking on to the decoy. In short, X-Guard behaves smartly. It doesn’t just shout randomly to confuse the enemy—it thinks, reacts, and deceives in a way that makes it look like the real aircraft on enemy screens.&nbsp;What makes it especially clever is that it doesn’t just release random signals, it mimics the exact radar signature of a real Rafale jet, including the Doppler effect.&nbsp;The Doppler effect refers to the change in radar signals when a fast-moving object—like a jet—flies toward or away from the radar source. A simple way to understand this is to think of how an ambulance siren sounds higher-pitched as it comes closer and lower-pitched as it moves away. Radar systems use this change in signal to measure speed and direction.&nbsp;The X-Guard copies this effect perfectly, so enemy systems are tricked into thinking the decoy is the real jet in motion. This makes it nearly impossible for missiles or tracking systems to tell the difference.&nbsp;The device can be deployed in under two seconds and acts like a fake wingman, flying alongside the actual Rafale. Once the threat has passed, it retracts back into the pod (the jet’s external container).&nbsp;In May 2025, Rafale Advanced Defense Systems introduced an upgraded version called X-Guard RT. According to a Rafale executive quoted by Jane’s Defence Weekly, this new model is standalone, meaning it doesn’t rely on the jet’s internal systems. “That makes it possible to fit it on cargo planes too, which usually don’t have this kind of high-tech protection,” the official said.&nbsp;<h2>How India fooled Pakistan</h2>&nbsp;Ryan Bodenheimer, a former US Air Force pilot, told IDRW.org that India’s use of the X-Guard was “the best spoofing and deception we’ve ever seen.”&nbsp;Spoofing is when a device—like the X-Guard—pretends to be the real jet by sending out fake signals that look exactly like the actual aircraft’s signals. This confuses enemy radars and missiles, causing them to lock on to the decoy instead of the real target.&nbsp;India’s Rafale jets outwitted Pakistan’s Chinese-made J-10C fighter aircraft and PL-15E air-to-air missiles, both of which rely heavily on radar guidance.&nbsp;The X-Guard completely confused them.&nbsp;Even the KLJ-7A AESA radars, used on Pakistan’s J-10C fighters, mistook the X-Guard for a real Rafale. Bodenheimer remarked that this operation could “redefine the rules of electronic warfare.” According to Jane’s Defence Weekly, the Pakistani claims of having shot down Indian Rafales were likely cases where their missiles had actually hit these X-Guard decoys.&nbsp;<h2>Conclusion</h2>&nbsp;India didn’t just respond with firepower in Operation Sindoor—it responded with intelligence, innovation, and precision. The X-Guard decoy system acted like an invisible wingman, shielding real Rafale jets by confusing and misleading enemy missiles and radars.&nbsp;This operation showed how brains can win where brute force may fail. By using AI, smart decoys, and electronic trickery, the Indian Air Force demonstrated that modern warfare is no longer just about who fires first—but about who thinks faster.&nbsp;Sometimes, the smartest victories are won without firing a single shot.

India’s Rafale jets outwitted Pakistan’s Chinese-made J-10C fighter aircraft and PL-15E air-to-air missiles, both of which rely heavily on radar guidance. The X-Guard decoy system acted like an invisible wingman, shielding real Rafale jets by misleading enemy missiles and radars.

In a bold and smart military move, India tricked Pakistan into believing it had shot down a Rafale fighter jet during Operation Sindoor, which was launched on May 7 in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam. What Pakistan actually hit, however, wasn’t a real aircraft—it was a high-tech decoy device known as the X-Guard, deployed from India’s Rafale jets. India’s Defence Secretary, R.K. Singh, confirmed in an interview that no Rafale had been shot down. Around the same time, reports also emerged suggesting that China, through its embassies, had spread false claims about the performance of French-made Rafale jets during the operation. So, what is this X-Guard? How did it trick Pakistan? And what do experts have to say about it? What is Rafale’s X-Guard? The X-Guard is a compact but powerful device that acts like an invisible bodyguard for the Rafale fighter jet. It is part of the jet’s electronic warfare system, designed to protect the aircraft from being hit by radar-guided missiles. Radar-guided missiles work by sending out radar signals that bounce off enemy aircraft. Once the missile detects the reflection, it locks on and follows the signal—much like how a bat uses echoes to find insects in the dark. The X-Guard is capable of fooling even the most sophisticated radar systems that guide such missiles. It can deceive both Monopulse radars and LORO (Lobe-On-Receive-Only) radars. Monopulse radar is a highly accurate radar system that can quickly detect both the position and speed of an aircraft. It is considered very hard to mislead. LORO radar, on the other hand, operates mostly in a listening mode. It tracks aircraft silently, without sending many signals, making it stealthier—but X-Guard can trick that too. According to Rafale’s manufacturer, X-Guard is cutting-edge, lightweight, and reusable. It is housed in a pod (a special container fixed to the jet) and can be deployed and retracted using a reel-out/reel-in mechanism. The pilot activates it when the aircraft is in a threat zone. How does it work? The X-Guard weighs about 30 kilogrammes and is connected to the jet via a 100-metre-long fibre optic cable. This connection gives the pilot real-time updates on incoming threats, and the fibre-optic system ensures it’s not disrupted by enemy jamming efforts. Once deployed, the X-Guard sends out a strong 360-degree jamming signal with 500 watts of power. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to confuse enemy radars. What does this mean? Strong 360-degree jamming signal: The X-Guard creates a powerful invisible signal (like a radio wave) that spreads in all directions around the aircraft—just like how a light bulb shines light in all directions, not just one. This signal is used to jam, or block, the enemy’s radar so they can’t see or track the real jet. 500 watts of power: This is how strong the jamming signal is. For comparison, a regular household bulb is about 60 watts. So 500 watts is very powerful—strong enough to interrupt or confuse enemy radar systems from a good distance. Uses Artificial Intelligence (AI): The X-Guard is not a simple machine. It has AI software that can: > Understand what kind of radar is trying to track the jet. > Decide the best way to block or mislead that radar. > Adjust its signals in real-time so that the enemy radar thinks it is locking on to the real jet, when it’s actually locking on to the decoy. In short, X-Guard behaves smartly. It doesn’t just shout randomly to confuse the enemy—it thinks, reacts, and deceives in a way that makes it look like the real aircraft on enemy screens. What makes it especially clever is that it doesn’t just release random signals, it mimics the exact radar signature of a real Rafale jet, including the Doppler effect. The Doppler effect refers to the change in radar signals when a fast-moving object—like a jet—flies toward or away from the radar source. A simple way to understand this is to think of how an ambulance siren sounds higher-pitched as it comes closer and lower-pitched as it moves away. Radar systems use this change in signal to measure speed and direction. The X-Guard copies this effect perfectly, so enemy systems are tricked into thinking the decoy is the real jet in motion. This makes it nearly impossible for missiles or tracking systems to tell the difference. The device can be deployed in under two seconds and acts like a fake wingman, flying alongside the actual Rafale. Once the threat has passed, it retracts back into the pod (the jet’s external container). In May 2025, Rafale Advanced Defense Systems introduced an upgraded version called X-Guard RT. According to a Rafale executive quoted by Jane’s Defence Weekly, this new model is standalone, meaning it doesn’t rely on the jet’s internal systems. “That makes it possible to fit it on cargo planes too, which usually don’t have this kind of high-tech protection,” the official said. How India fooled Pakistan Ryan Bodenheimer, a former US Air Force pilot, told IDRW.org that India’s use of the X-Guard was “the best spoofing and deception we’ve ever seen.” Spoofing is when a device—like the X-Guard—pretends to be the real jet by sending out fake signals that look exactly like the actual aircraft’s signals. This confuses enemy radars and missiles, causing them to lock on to the decoy instead of the real target. India’s Rafale jets outwitted Pakistan’s Chinese-made J-10C fighter aircraft and PL-15E air-to-air missiles, both of which rely heavily on radar guidance. The X-Guard completely confused them. Even the KLJ-7A AESA radars, used on Pakistan’s J-10C fighters, mistook the X-Guard for a real Rafale. Bodenheimer remarked that this operation could “redefine the rules of electronic warfare.” According to Jane’s Defence Weekly, the Pakistani claims of having shot down Indian Rafales were likely cases where their missiles had actually hit these X-Guard decoys. Conclusion India didn’t just respond with firepower in Operation Sindoor—it responded with intelligence, innovation, and precision. The X-Guard decoy system acted like an invisible wingman, shielding real Rafale jets by confusing and misleading enemy missiles and radars. This operation showed how brains can win where brute force may fail. By using AI, smart decoys, and electronic trickery, the Indian Air Force demonstrated that modern warfare is no longer just about who fires first—but about who thinks faster. Sometimes, the smartest victories are won without firing a single shot.

India’s Rafale jets outwitted Pakistan’s Chinese-made J-10C fighter aircraft and PL-15E air-to-air missiles, both of which rely heavily on radar guidance. The X-Guard decoy system acted like an invisible wingman, shielding real Rafale jets by misleading enemy missiles and radars.&nbsp;

India’s invisible wingman: How Rafale’s X-Guard fooled Pakistan in Operation Sindoor

Pakistan’s Air Force claimed it shot down five Indian fighter jets during the recent Indo-Pakistan conflict, three of them Rafales. The announcement, which came after India launched Operation Sindoor on 7 May, was widely shared but lacked any supporting evidence. While some reports attributed remarks to Dassault CEO Eric Trappier calling Pakistan’s claims ‘inaccurate and unfounded’, the company later issued a formal denial, stating Trappier had not made any operational or technical comment on Operation&nbsp;Sindoor.“In response to certain press reports quoting Dassault Aviation Chairman &amp; CEO, Eric Trappier, about the Sindoor operation, Dassault Aviation formally denies that Eric Trappier has made any operational or technical comments regarding the use of the Rafale in this&nbsp;operation,” the press statement said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/b-2-bomber-has-only-crashed-once-and-it-was-not-because-of-enemy-fire-what-downed-the-invincible-b-2-spirit-1751133891162">B-2 bomber has only CRASHED once and it was not because of enemy fire: What downed the 'invincible' B-2 Spirit?</a><h2>India denies Pakistani claims, confirms losses were limited</h2>India’s Defence Secretary R.K. Singh backed the French statement in an interview with CNBC TV18. He dismissed the plural use of “Rafales,” saying it was “absolutely not correct.” Singh added that Pakistan suffered far more losses, in both human and material terms, and that over 100 terrorists were eliminated during the conflict.<h2>Some Indian jets were lost, but not to enemy fire</h2>In early June, India’s Defence Attaché to Indonesia, Navy Captain Shiv Kumar, confirmed that India lost some fighter jets on the first day of Operation Sindoor. However, he blamed it on political constraints, which initially prohibited attacks on Pakistani military targets, allowing their defences to operate freely.“I may not agree with him that India lost so many aircraft. But I do agree that we did lose some aircraft, and that happened only because of the constraint given by the political leadership,” Kumar said.This comes as France is fighting what it calls a “disinformation campaign” aimed at discrediting the Rafale. French officials say this effort is being led by Chinese defence attachés who are trying to persuade countries to drop Rafale in favour of Chinese jets.France’s defence ministry issued a strong statement, warning that this wasn’t just about aircraft performance. “The campaign aimed to weaken France’s image as a strategic, industrial, and technological power,” the ministry said. Dassault Aviation has sold 533 Rafales, with 323 exports to countries including Egypt, India, Qatar, the UAE, and Indonesia.

Speaking to French outlet Avion Chasse, he confirmed that India lost only one Rafale during the operation, and that too due to a technical failure at high altitude, not in combat.

Pakistan’s Air Force claimed it shot down five Indian fighter jets during the recent Indo-Pakistan conflict, three of them Rafales. The announcement, which came after India launched Operation Sindoor on 7 May, was widely shared but lacked any supporting evidence. While some reports attributed remarks to Dassault CEO Eric Trappier calling Pakistan’s claims ‘inaccurate and unfounded’, the company later issued a formal denial, stating Trappier had not made any operational or technical comment on Operation Sindoor. “In response to certain press reports quoting Dassault Aviation Chairman & CEO, Eric Trappier, about the Sindoor operation, Dassault Aviation formally denies that Eric Trappier has made any operational or technical comments regarding the use of the Rafale in this operation,” the press statement said. Also read: B-2 bomber has only CRASHED once and it was not because of enemy fire: What downed the 'invincible' B-2 Spirit? India denies Pakistani claims, confirms losses were limited India’s Defence Secretary R.K. Singh backed the French statement in an interview with CNBC TV18. He dismissed the plural use of “Rafales,” saying it was “absolutely not correct.” Singh added that Pakistan suffered far more losses, in both human and material terms, and that over 100 terrorists were eliminated during the conflict. Some Indian jets were lost, but not to enemy fire In early June, India’s Defence Attaché to Indonesia, Navy Captain Shiv Kumar, confirmed that India lost some fighter jets on the first day of Operation Sindoor. However, he blamed it on political constraints, which initially prohibited attacks on Pakistani military targets, allowing their defences to operate freely. “I may not agree with him that India lost so many aircraft. But I do agree that we did lose some aircraft, and that happened only because of the constraint given by the political leadership,” Kumar said. This comes as France is fighting what it calls a “disinformation campaign” aimed at discrediting the Rafale. French officials say this effort is being led by Chinese defence attachés who are trying to persuade countries to drop Rafale in favour of Chinese jets. France’s defence ministry issued a strong statement, warning that this wasn’t just about aircraft performance. “The campaign aimed to weaken France’s image as a strategic, industrial, and technological power,” the ministry said. Dassault Aviation has sold 533 Rafales, with 323 exports to countries including Egypt, India, Qatar, the UAE, and Indonesia.

Speaking to French outlet Avion Chasse, he confirmed that India lost only one Rafale during the operation, and that too due to a technical failure at high altitude, not in combat.

Fact Check: Did Pakistan really shoot down India’s Rafale jets? Dassault denies CEO made Operation Sindoor comments

China on Monday (July 7) said that it has close ties with Pakistan and it does cooperate with the country on defence, but chose not to respond to the direct question of its role and help to Islamabad during Operation Sindoor in May this year. Addressing a media briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “China and Pakistan are close neighbours, enjoying traditional friendship. Defence and security cooperation is part of the normal cooperation between the two countries and does not target any third party.” The Chinese response came after Indian Army's Deputy Chief Lt Gen Rahul R Singh suggested that Beijing provided active military support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor using the conflict as a “live lab” to test various weapon systems. Notably, Pakitan Army chief Asim Munir has also responded on the matter. China also highlighted its relationship with India, stating that it is in "critical moment of improvement and development.”&nbsp;<h2>What Indian Army's Deputy Chief Lt Gen Rahul Singh said?</h2>Addressing the 'New Age Military Technologies' conference organised by FICCI last week, Gen. Singh highlighted the scale of Chinese influence on Pakistan's defence preparedness, pointing out that as much as 81 per cent of Islamabad's military hardware comes from China. He also said that while Pakistan was the "front face", China extended all possible support to its all-weather ally, Turkiye was also playing a major role by supplying military hardware to Islamabad, adding that India was actually dealing with at least three adversaries during the May 7-10 conflict.&nbsp;"If you are to look at statistics, in the last five years, 81% of the military hardware that Pakistan is getting is all Chinese...China is able to test its weapons against other weapons, so it's like a live lab available to them," the top Army general said. "When DGMO-level talks were going on, Pakistan was actually mentioning that we know your important vector is primed, and it is ready for action. I would request you to pull it back. So, they were getting live inputs... from China," he added.<h2>What Asim Munir said on the matter?</h2>Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir on Monday (July 7, 2025) rejected assertions that Islamabad received external support during the conflict with India, saying such assertions are “factually incorrect”. In an address to the graduating officers at the National Defence University Islamabad, Munir said, "Insinuations regarding external support in Pakistan's successful Operation Bunyanum Marsoos are irresponsible and factually incorrect and reflect a chronic reluctance to acknowledge indigenous capability and institutional resilience developed over decades of strategic prudence,” he said. “Naming other states as participants in the purely bilateral military conflagration is also a shoddy attempt at playing camp politics...," he added.&nbsp;

China on Monday (July 7) said that it has close ties with Pakistan and it does cooperate with the country on defence, but chose not to respond to the direct question of its role and help to Islamabad during Operation Sindoor in May this year.

China on Monday (July 7) said that it has close ties with Pakistan and it does cooperate with the country on defence, but chose not to respond to the direct question of its role and help to Islamabad during Operation Sindoor in May this year. Addressing a media briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “China and Pakistan are close neighbours, enjoying traditional friendship. Defence and security cooperation is part of the normal cooperation between the two countries and does not target any third party.” The Chinese response came after Indian Army's Deputy Chief Lt Gen Rahul R Singh suggested that Beijing provided active military support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor using the conflict as a “live lab” to test various weapon systems. Notably, Pakitan Army chief Asim Munir has also responded on the matter. China also highlighted its relationship with India, stating that it is in "critical moment of improvement and development.” What Indian Army's Deputy Chief Lt Gen Rahul Singh said? Addressing the 'New Age Military Technologies' conference organised by FICCI last week, Gen. Singh highlighted the scale of Chinese influence on Pakistan's defence preparedness, pointing out that as much as 81 per cent of Islamabad's military hardware comes from China. He also said that while Pakistan was the "front face", China extended all possible support to its all-weather ally, Turkiye was also playing a major role by supplying military hardware to Islamabad, adding that India was actually dealing with at least three adversaries during the May 7-10 conflict. "If you are to look at statistics, in the last five years, 81% of the military hardware that Pakistan is getting is all Chinese...China is able to test its weapons against other weapons, so it's like a live lab available to them," the top Army general said. "When DGMO-level talks were going on, Pakistan was actually mentioning that we know your important vector is primed, and it is ready for action. I would request you to pull it back. So, they were getting live inputs... from China," he added. What Asim Munir said on the matter? Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir on Monday (July 7, 2025) rejected assertions that Islamabad received external support during the conflict with India, saying such assertions are “factually incorrect”. In an address to the graduating officers at the National Defence University Islamabad, Munir said, "Insinuations regarding external support in Pakistan's successful Operation Bunyanum Marsoos are irresponsible and factually incorrect and reflect a chronic reluctance to acknowledge indigenous capability and institutional resilience developed over decades of strategic prudence,” he said. “Naming other states as participants in the purely bilateral military conflagration is also a shoddy attempt at playing camp politics...," he added.

China on Monday (July 7) said that it has close ties with Pakistan and it does cooperate with the country on defence, but chose not to respond to the direct question of its role and help to Islamabad during Operation Sindoor in May this year.

'Traditional friendship...': China finally REVEALS if it helped 'close neighbour' Pakistan in Operation Sindoor

Addressing a media briefing on Monday (July 7), Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning downplayed the French allegations that it deployed its embassies to spread doubts about the performance of French-made Rafale jets after India used them in conflict with Pakistan in May. When asked about it, Mao said, “I am not familiar with what you mentioned”. Meanwhile, the Chinese Ministry of National Defence was quoted by Chinese media as denying the allegations. Global Times, in a post on X, said that the Chinese defence ministry labelled the accusations as “pure groundless rumours and slander,” and reiterated China’s commitment to a “prudent and responsible approach to military exports,” and emphasised its role in promoting “regional and global peace and stability.”&nbsp;India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in territories controlled by Pakistan in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The strikes triggered four days of intense clashes that ended with a ceasefire understanding on stopping the military actions on May 10. New Delhi has maintained that India's fierce counterattack that day forced Pakistan to plead for ending the hostilities.<h2>What did France allege?</h2>France also said that shortly after the escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, a “vast campaign of disinformation” began to circulate online. The French Ministry for Armed Forces claimed that disinformation was spread to "promote the superiority of alternative equipment, notably of Chinese design." French military and intelligence officials claimed China orchestrated a disinformation campaign aimed at damaging the credibility and export prospects of the French-made Rafale fighter jet. French officials said that they have found that the Chinese embassies were trying to undermine Rafale sales by persuading countries that have already ordered the jets, notably Indonesia, not to buy them and instead choose Chinese-made fighters, according to an AP report.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The Rafale was not randomly targeted. It is a highly capable fighter jet, exported abroad and deployed in a high-visibility theater," the French Ministry for Armed Forces added in a statement. “The Rafale was also targeted because it represents a strategic French offering. By attacking the aircraft, certain actors sought to undermine the credibility of France and its defence industrial and technological base. The disinformation campaign therefore, did not merely target an aircraft, but more broadly a national image of strategic autonomy, industrial reliability, and solid partnerships," it said.

China's Defence Ministry rejected claims that it tried to damage the Rafale jet's global image, calling them baseless and slanderous. It reaffirmed its commitment to responsible military exports.


Addressing a media briefing on Monday (July 7), Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning downplayed the French allegations that it deployed its embassies to spread doubts about the performance of French-made Rafale jets after India used them in conflict with Pakistan in May. When asked about it, Mao said, “I am not familiar with what you mentioned”. Meanwhile, the Chinese Ministry of National Defence was quoted by Chinese media as denying the allegations. Global Times, in a post on X, said that the Chinese defence ministry labelled the accusations as “pure groundless rumours and slander,” and reiterated China’s commitment to a “prudent and responsible approach to military exports,” and emphasised its role in promoting “regional and global peace and stability.” India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in territories controlled by Pakistan in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The strikes triggered four days of intense clashes that ended with a ceasefire understanding on stopping the military actions on May 10. New Delhi has maintained that India's fierce counterattack that day forced Pakistan to plead for ending the hostilities. What did France allege? France also said that shortly after the escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, a “vast campaign of disinformation” began to circulate online. The French Ministry for Armed Forces claimed that disinformation was spread to "promote the superiority of alternative equipment, notably of Chinese design." French military and intelligence officials claimed China orchestrated a disinformation campaign aimed at damaging the credibility and export prospects of the French-made Rafale fighter jet. French officials said that they have found that the Chinese embassies were trying to undermine Rafale sales by persuading countries that have already ordered the jets, notably Indonesia, not to buy them and instead choose Chinese-made fighters, according to an AP report. "The Rafale was not randomly targeted. It is a highly capable fighter jet, exported abroad and deployed in a high-visibility theater," the French Ministry for Armed Forces added in a statement. “The Rafale was also targeted because it represents a strategic French offering. By attacking the aircraft, certain actors sought to undermine the credibility of France and its defence industrial and technological base. The disinformation campaign therefore, did not merely target an aircraft, but more broadly a national image of strategic autonomy, industrial reliability, and solid partnerships," it said.

China's Defence Ministry rejected claims that it tried to damage the Rafale jet's global image, calling them baseless and slanderous. It reaffirmed its commitment to responsible military exports.

Did China launch global campaign against Rafale jets during India-Pak tensions? Here's 8-word answer by the Chinese

Jyoti Malhotra, the travel vlogger from Haryana's Sirsa held on alleged spying charges, was the Kerala government's guest in a campaign to promote tourism and visited the southern state during its influencer outreach initiative. According to a report published in Mathrubhumi, it has been revealed through an Right To Information (RTI) Act that the Kerala government sponsored the trip of 41 influencers selected to give a boost to the southern state as a global tourist destination.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their travel, stay and meals were sponsored by the state government. It hired a private agency to assist them with shooting videos while staying there. Jyoti Malhotra was one among these 41 influencers.&nbsp;With the news leading to opposition parties questioning the state government, Kerala Tourism Minister PA Mohammed Riyas said that Jyoti Malhotra was among the influencers invited by the state to promote Kerala. "This was part of a larger influencer campaign aimed at promoting Kerala. Everything was done transparently and in good faith," he was quoted saying. “This is not a government that facilitates espionage. The media must understand how government systems work. No one could have foreseen this,” he added. &nbsp;He described the charges being leveled against the state government for inviting her as "pure propaganda" and that the state government "would never knowingly invite a spy". The opposition parties, Congress and BJP among them, have attacked the Left Front government for questioning why influencer backgrounds were not vetted properly before they were contacted.&nbsp;"RTI reveals Pakistani spy Jyoti Malhotra visited Kerala on Left government invite &amp; was state guest in a sense courtesy Tourism Dept. So Bharat Mata is blocked and Pak Spies are given RED CARPET by Left? Tourism Minister Mohammad Riyas is son in law of Vijayan. He should be sacked.. and investigated," BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said in a post on X. &nbsp;Jyoti Malhotra visited Kochi, Kannur, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, Munnar, and Thiruvananthapuram during her stay in Kerala. She filmed vlogs of Theyyam shows and scenic places. These vlogs were uploaded on her YouTube channel, Travel with Jo, and on social media.&nbsp;The 33-year-old travel vlogger had previously visited the state when the spying allegations emerged. She was arrested in May 2025, following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. After her arrest, Haryana Police said that Pakistani intelligence agencies were grooming her as an asset.

Jyoti Malhotra, arrested for espionage during Operation Sindoor, was guest of Kerala tourism drive, reveals RTI

Jyoti Malhotra, the travel vlogger from Haryana's Sirsa held on alleged spying charges, was the Kerala government's guest in a campaign to promote tourism and visited the southern state during its influencer outreach initiative. According to a report published in Mathrubhumi, it has been revealed through an Right To Information (RTI) Act that the Kerala government sponsored the trip of 41 influencers selected to give a boost to the southern state as a global tourist destination. Their travel, stay and meals were sponsored by the state government. It hired a private agency to assist them with shooting videos while staying there. Jyoti Malhotra was one among these 41 influencers. With the news leading to opposition parties questioning the state government, Kerala Tourism Minister PA Mohammed Riyas said that Jyoti Malhotra was among the influencers invited by the state to promote Kerala. "This was part of a larger influencer campaign aimed at promoting Kerala. Everything was done transparently and in good faith," he was quoted saying. “This is not a government that facilitates espionage. The media must understand how government systems work. No one could have foreseen this,” he added. He described the charges being leveled against the state government for inviting her as "pure propaganda" and that the state government "would never knowingly invite a spy". The opposition parties, Congress and BJP among them, have attacked the Left Front government for questioning why influencer backgrounds were not vetted properly before they were contacted. "RTI reveals Pakistani spy Jyoti Malhotra visited Kerala on Left government invite & was state guest in a sense courtesy Tourism Dept. So Bharat Mata is blocked and Pak Spies are given RED CARPET by Left? Tourism Minister Mohammad Riyas is son in law of Vijayan. He should be sacked.. and investigated," BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said in a post on X. Jyoti Malhotra visited Kochi, Kannur, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, Munnar, and Thiruvananthapuram during her stay in Kerala. She filmed vlogs of Theyyam shows and scenic places. These vlogs were uploaded on her YouTube channel, Travel with Jo, and on social media. The 33-year-old travel vlogger had previously visited the state when the spying allegations emerged. She was arrested in May 2025, following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. After her arrest, Haryana Police said that Pakistani intelligence agencies were grooming her as an asset.

According to the RTI, during her stay in Kerala, Jyoti Malhotra visited Kochi, Kannur, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, Munnar, and Thiruvananthapuram. She shot vlogs on Theyyam performances and captured scenic locations

The Delhi High Court on Monday (Jul 7) dismissed the petition filed by the Turkish company Celebi Airport Services, whose security clearance was removed by the Indian government during the India-Pakistan conflict in May this year over alleged support to Islamabad. The firm handles a large part of the services at nine major airports in India. Following the move, Celebi had filed a legal petition in the Delhi High Court challenging the Indian government’s decision.&nbsp;Bureau of Civil Aviation Safety (BCAS) on May 15 revoked the security clearance of the Turkish, citing national security concerns, after Ankara showed support to Islamabad and condemned India’s strikes on terror camps in Pakistan. Indian armed forces on May 7 launched Operation Sindoor in response to the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, targeting terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). On May 23, Justice Sachin Datta reserved the verdict after hearing the submissions in the matter.&nbsp;Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd oversee ground handling and cargo terminal operations at several airports in India. Defending the government’s decision, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta highlighted an ”unprecedented” threat to aviation security.&nbsp;Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, who is representing Celebi, on Friday argued that the Centre’s move was against the principles of natural justice. He added that the decision violated the procedure as per the Aircraft Security Rules. He said that the Director General of BCAS ought to have given the petitioners a hearing after issuing a notice of “proposed punishment” along with reasons for their action.&nbsp;In a statement released on May 15, the Civil Aviation Ministry said, “The security clearance in r/o Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd, under the category Ground Handling Agency was approved by DG, BCAS vide letter no. 15/99/2022-Delhi-BCAS/E-219110 dated 21.11.2022.”&nbsp;“In the exercise of power conferred upon DG, BCAS, the security clearance in r/o Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd is hereby revoked with immediate effect in the interest of National Security. This issues with the approval of DG, BCAS,” the statement added.

Bureau of Civil Aviation Safety (BCAS) on May 15 revoked the security clearance of the Turkish, citing national security concerns, after Ankara showed support to Islamabad and condemned India’s strikes on terror camps in Pakistan.

The Delhi High Court on Monday (Jul 7) dismissed the petition filed by the Turkish company Celebi Airport Services, whose security clearance was removed by the Indian government during the India-Pakistan conflict in May this year over alleged support to Islamabad. The firm handles a large part of the services at nine major airports in India. Following the move, Celebi had filed a legal petition in the Delhi High Court challenging the Indian government’s decision. Bureau of Civil Aviation Safety (BCAS) on May 15 revoked the security clearance of the Turkish, citing national security concerns, after Ankara showed support to Islamabad and condemned India’s strikes on terror camps in Pakistan. Indian armed forces on May 7 launched Operation Sindoor in response to the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, targeting terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). On May 23, Justice Sachin Datta reserved the verdict after hearing the submissions in the matter. Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd oversee ground handling and cargo terminal operations at several airports in India. Defending the government’s decision, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta highlighted an ”unprecedented” threat to aviation security. Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, who is representing Celebi, on Friday argued that the Centre’s move was against the principles of natural justice. He added that the decision violated the procedure as per the Aircraft Security Rules. He said that the Director General of BCAS ought to have given the petitioners a hearing after issuing a notice of “proposed punishment” along with reasons for their action. In a statement released on May 15, the Civil Aviation Ministry said, “The security clearance in r/o Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd, under the category Ground Handling Agency was approved by DG, BCAS vide letter no. 15/99/2022-Delhi-BCAS/E-219110 dated 21.11.2022.” “In the exercise of power conferred upon DG, BCAS, the security clearance in r/o Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd is hereby revoked with immediate effect in the interest of National Security. This issues with the approval of DG, BCAS,” the statement added.

Bureau of Civil Aviation Safety (BCAS) on May 15 revoked the security clearance of the Turkish, citing national security concerns, after Ankara showed support to Islamabad and condemned India’s strikes on terror camps in Pakistan.

Delhi HC dismisses Turkish firm Celebi’s plea on clearance revocation

In the aftermath of the India-Pakistan aerial confrontation in May, French military and intelligence officials claim China orchestrated a disinformation campaign aimed at damaging the credibility and export prospects of the French-made Rafale fighter jet. According to a French intelligence report accessed by the Associated Press, the effort was allegedly spearheaded by Chinese defence attachés across various embassies, notably in countries considering procurement of the Rafale. This was seen as an attempt to persuade them to buy Chinese-made jets.&nbsp;The four-day escalation between India and Pakistan marked a rare combat use of Rafale jets by the Indian Air Force. Shortly after, what the French Defence Ministry described as a “vast campaign of disinformation”, began to circulate online. The ministry said that it "sought to promote the superiority of alternative equipment, notably of Chinese design.""The Rafale was not randomly targeted. It is a highly capable fighter jet, exported abroad and deployed in a high-visibility theater," the ministry said on its website.&nbsp;“The Rafale was also targeted because it represents a strategic French offering. By attacking the aircraft, certain actors sought to undermine the credibility of France and its defense industrial and technological base. The disinformation campaign therefore did not merely target an aircraft, but more broadly a national image of strategic autonomy, industrial reliability, and solid partnerships," it added.&nbsp;<h2>Targeted Diplomacy and Digital Manipulation</h2>&nbsp;The French report highlights that Chinese diplomats actively lobbied governments, especially in Southeast Asia, to question the Rafale’s performance and promote Chinese alternatives like the J-10 and FC-31. Indonesia, which has ordered 42 Rafales, was reportedly a key target of this campaign. The campaign included social media posts, fake imagery, AI-generated content, and even repurposed video game footage portraying Rafale losses. Over 1,000 new online accounts allegedly amplified claims of Rafale shootdowns.&nbsp;Although France has not found direct digital evidence linking the Chinese government to the online campaign, intelligence officials cite “coordinated messaging” from Chinese embassies and defence officials as indicative of state involvement. Beijing has denied the allegations, calling them “groundless rumours and slander.”<h2> Rumours circulated after Pakistan's claims</h2>&nbsp;The French officials have allegedly said that the countries began questioning the performance of Rafale after Pakistan's claims of downing five Indian planes, including three Rafale jets, in May. However, these claims have not been confirmed by India. In fact, the CEO of Dassault Aviation, Eric Trappier recently dismissed Pakistan's claim and called it "inaccurate".&nbsp;France, a key arms exporter, has sold 533 Rafales globally, with 323 exported to eight countries. The reputational fallout, officials warn, could affect future deals in an increasingly contested defence market. &nbsp;

The ministry said that it "sought to promote the superiority of alternative equipment, notably of Chinese design."

In the aftermath of the India-Pakistan aerial confrontation in May, French military and intelligence officials claim China orchestrated a disinformation campaign aimed at damaging the credibility and export prospects of the French-made Rafale fighter jet. According to a French intelligence report accessed by the Associated Press, the effort was allegedly spearheaded by Chinese defence attachés across various embassies, notably in countries considering procurement of the Rafale. This was seen as an attempt to persuade them to buy Chinese-made jets. The four-day escalation between India and Pakistan marked a rare combat use of Rafale jets by the Indian Air Force. Shortly after, what the French Defence Ministry described as a “vast campaign of disinformation”, began to circulate online. The ministry said that it "sought to promote the superiority of alternative equipment, notably of Chinese design." "The Rafale was not randomly targeted. It is a highly capable fighter jet, exported abroad and deployed in a high-visibility theater," the ministry said on its website. “The Rafale was also targeted because it represents a strategic French offering. By attacking the aircraft, certain actors sought to undermine the credibility of France and its defense industrial and technological base. The disinformation campaign therefore did not merely target an aircraft, but more broadly a national image of strategic autonomy, industrial reliability, and solid partnerships," it added. Targeted Diplomacy and Digital Manipulation The French report highlights that Chinese diplomats actively lobbied governments, especially in Southeast Asia, to question the Rafale’s performance and promote Chinese alternatives like the J-10 and FC-31. Indonesia, which has ordered 42 Rafales, was reportedly a key target of this campaign. The campaign included social media posts, fake imagery, AI-generated content, and even repurposed video game footage portraying Rafale losses. Over 1,000 new online accounts allegedly amplified claims of Rafale shootdowns. Although France has not found direct digital evidence linking the Chinese government to the online campaign, intelligence officials cite “coordinated messaging” from Chinese embassies and defence officials as indicative of state involvement. Beijing has denied the allegations, calling them “groundless rumours and slander.” Rumours circulated after Pakistan's claims The French officials have allegedly said that the countries began questioning the performance of Rafale after Pakistan's claims of downing five Indian planes, including three Rafale jets, in May. However, these claims have not been confirmed by India. In fact, the CEO of Dassault Aviation, Eric Trappier recently dismissed Pakistan's claim and called it "inaccurate". France, a key arms exporter, has sold 533 Rafales globally, with 323 exported to eight countries. The reputational fallout, officials warn, could affect future deals in an increasingly contested defence market.

The ministry said that it "sought to promote the superiority of alternative equipment, notably of Chinese design."

'Campaign of disinformation!': France blames China for anti-Rafale campaign after India's Operation Sindoor

Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh on Friday inferred that the Indian military had fought not only Pakistan but two other invisible enemies during last month's Operation Sindoor. He was referring to the tacit military support Islamabad received from China and Turkey, which had supplied weapons to the cash-strapped nation.&nbsp;Addressing an event in the national capital, the top army general pointed out that an overwhelming 81 per cent of the Pakistan military's weaponry and other combat and defence hardware had been procured from China, one of India's most formidable regional rivals and Islamabad's closest strategic ally.&nbsp;Responding to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people -- mostly tourists -- perished, India destroyed nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan reacted angrily, as it attacked Indian military positions and civilian areas with barrages of drones and other projectiles. The Indian military later attacked air force bases deep inside Pakistan, forcing its DGMO to request a cessation of hostilities from his Indian counterpart.&nbsp;Elaborating on China's role in the four-day India-Pakistan conflict, the army officer said that China used the hostilities as an opportunity to gauge the capacity and capabilities of its weapons.&nbsp;He further said China had used the conflict as a lab to test the efficacy of its weapons against those manufactured by other countries.&nbsp;"Air defence and how it panned out during the entire operation was important...This time, our population centres were not quite addressed, but next time, we need to be prepared for that... We had one border and two adversaries, actually three. Pakistan was in the front. China was providing all possible support. 81% of the military hardware with Pakistan is Chinese... China is able to test its weapons against other weapons, so it's like a live lab available to them. Turkey also played an important role in providing the type of support it did... When DGMO-level talks were on, Pakistan had the live updates of our important vectors from China...We need a robust air defence system," he said.&nbsp;China regularly supplies arms and ammunition, and fighter jets to Pakistan. Between 2020 and 2024, nearly two-thirds of China's military exports went to Pakistan, said a report by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Beijing's arms export to Pakistan between 2015 and 2025 amounted to approximately $8.2 billion.&nbsp;Turkey supplied the drones used by Pakistan to attack India during Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;Despite China and Turkey's help, India managed to cripple Pakistan air bases, showing the capabilities of the Indian armed forces to carry out pin-point strikes on remote targets.

Elaborating on China's role in the four-day India-Pakistan conflict, the army officer said that China used the hostilities as an opportunity to gauge the capacity and capabilities of its weapons.

Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh on Friday inferred that the Indian military had fought not only Pakistan but two other invisible enemies during last month's Operation Sindoor. He was referring to the tacit military support Islamabad received from China and Turkey, which had supplied weapons to the cash-strapped nation. Addressing an event in the national capital, the top army general pointed out that an overwhelming 81 per cent of the Pakistan military's weaponry and other combat and defence hardware had been procured from China, one of India's most formidable regional rivals and Islamabad's closest strategic ally. Responding to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people -- mostly tourists -- perished, India destroyed nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan reacted angrily, as it attacked Indian military positions and civilian areas with barrages of drones and other projectiles. The Indian military later attacked air force bases deep inside Pakistan, forcing its DGMO to request a cessation of hostilities from his Indian counterpart. Elaborating on China's role in the four-day India-Pakistan conflict, the army officer said that China used the hostilities as an opportunity to gauge the capacity and capabilities of its weapons. He further said China had used the conflict as a lab to test the efficacy of its weapons against those manufactured by other countries. "Air defence and how it panned out during the entire operation was important...This time, our population centres were not quite addressed, but next time, we need to be prepared for that... We had one border and two adversaries, actually three. Pakistan was in the front. China was providing all possible support. 81% of the military hardware with Pakistan is Chinese... China is able to test its weapons against other weapons, so it's like a live lab available to them. Turkey also played an important role in providing the type of support it did... When DGMO-level talks were on, Pakistan had the live updates of our important vectors from China...We need a robust air defence system," he said. China regularly supplies arms and ammunition, and fighter jets to Pakistan. Between 2020 and 2024, nearly two-thirds of China's military exports went to Pakistan, said a report by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Beijing's arms export to Pakistan between 2015 and 2025 amounted to approximately $8.2 billion. Turkey supplied the drones used by Pakistan to attack India during Operation Sindoor. Despite China and Turkey's help, India managed to cripple Pakistan air bases, showing the capabilities of the Indian armed forces to carry out pin-point strikes on remote targets.

Elaborating on China's role in the four-day India-Pakistan conflict, the army officer said that China used the hostilities as an opportunity to gauge the capacity and capabilities of its weapons.

Did India fight 3 enemies during Operation Sindoor? Top army general explains

After Pakistan witnessed some high-tech and extremely effective air defence systems of India take down several missiles fired by Pakistani army in retaliation of Operation Sindoor, Islamabad seems to have become 'desperate' in boosting defence cooperation with the US. Pakistan's Chief of the Air Staff Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu paid an official visit to the US in order to strengthen ties with Washington.&nbsp;The visit, first by a Pakistan Air Force chief in over a decade, comes almost immediately after Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's visit to the US last month and his meeting with President Donald Trump.&nbsp;Sidhu during his visit held top-level meetings at the Pentagon, State Department and Capitol Hill.&nbsp;He also met General David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the US Air Force in a bid to enhance defence cooperation, interoperability, and tech-based military exchanges.&nbsp;“This high-level visit is a strategic milestone in the Pak-US defence partnership. The visit will play a significant role in addressing key regional and global security issues as well as building institutional ties,” the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) said in a statement on Wednesday.&nbsp;"This high-level visit is a strategic milestone in the Pak-US defence partnership. The visit will play a significant role in addressing key regional and global security issues as well as building institutional ties,” the PAF added.&nbsp;Pakistan trying to reinvigorate stalled ties with US&nbsp;This visit is being seen by analysts as an attempt to reinvigorate the US-Pakistan relations that have stalled in the past decade. Once a strong ally and supplier of defence equipment to Pakistan, the United States shifted its focus towards India as it emerged as a powerful opposition to China and a central pillar of America's Indo-Pacific strategy. While Pakistan slowly drifted away towards China for its defence and economic requirements.&nbsp;However, Pakistan seems to have realised the need to improve ties with the US again after Operation Sindoor carried out by India in retaliation of the Pahalgam attack in which 26 innocent people were gunned down by terrorists having links to Pakistan.&nbsp;Pakistan eyeing jets, missiles from US?&nbsp;Islamabad is trying to modernise its air force and is reportedly looking to strike a deal with the US for its advanced military platforms, &nbsp;including F-16 Block 70 fighter jets, and air defence system.It is also looking to acquire additional AIM-7 Sparrow air-to-air missiles, and even batteries of the US-made High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), reported India Today.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The visit, first by a Pakistan Air Force chief in over a decade, comes almost immediately after Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs visit to the US last month and his meeting with President Donald Trump.

After Pakistan witnessed some high-tech and extremely effective air defence systems of India take down several missiles fired by Pakistani army in retaliation of Operation Sindoor, Islamabad seems to have become 'desperate' in boosting defence cooperation with the US. Pakistan's Chief of the Air Staff Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu paid an official visit to the US in order to strengthen ties with Washington. The visit, first by a Pakistan Air Force chief in over a decade, comes almost immediately after Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's visit to the US last month and his meeting with President Donald Trump. Sidhu during his visit held top-level meetings at the Pentagon, State Department and Capitol Hill. He also met General David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the US Air Force in a bid to enhance defence cooperation, interoperability, and tech-based military exchanges. “This high-level visit is a strategic milestone in the Pak-US defence partnership. The visit will play a significant role in addressing key regional and global security issues as well as building institutional ties,” the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) said in a statement on Wednesday. "This high-level visit is a strategic milestone in the Pak-US defence partnership. The visit will play a significant role in addressing key regional and global security issues as well as building institutional ties,” the PAF added. Pakistan trying to reinvigorate stalled ties with US This visit is being seen by analysts as an attempt to reinvigorate the US-Pakistan relations that have stalled in the past decade. Once a strong ally and supplier of defence equipment to Pakistan, the United States shifted its focus towards India as it emerged as a powerful opposition to China and a central pillar of America's Indo-Pacific strategy. While Pakistan slowly drifted away towards China for its defence and economic requirements. However, Pakistan seems to have realised the need to improve ties with the US again after Operation Sindoor carried out by India in retaliation of the Pahalgam attack in which 26 innocent people were gunned down by terrorists having links to Pakistan. Pakistan eyeing jets, missiles from US? Islamabad is trying to modernise its air force and is reportedly looking to strike a deal with the US for its advanced military platforms, including F-16 Block 70 fighter jets, and air defence system. It is also looking to acquire additional AIM-7 Sparrow air-to-air missiles, and even batteries of the US-made High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), reported India Today.

The visit, first by a Pakistan Air Force chief in over a decade, comes almost immediately after Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's visit to the US last month and his meeting with President Donald Trump.

First Munir, now air chief Zaheer Abbas, Pakistan 'desperate' to crack defence deal with US after Operation Sindoor?

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Jul 3) reiterated that the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan in May was the result of negotiations between the DGMOs of the two countries and not from any trade talks with the United States, dismissing claims made by US President Donald Trump. The Republican leader has said that he brokered a ceasefire understanding between the two neighbours using trade following military escalation after India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in response to the deadly Pahalagam terror attack.&nbsp;Speaking in a press conference in Washington during his three-day US visit, Jaishankar said, “The record of what happened at that time was very clear and the ceasefire was something which was negotiated between the DGMOs of the two countries.” He added, “I will leave it at that.”&nbsp;Earlier this week, the EAM told Newsweek that he was “in the room” when US Vice President JD Vance spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 9. He added that Vance told PM Modi that Pakistan would launch a massive attack on India if they did not accept certain things. PM Modi indicated that India would not remain silent and would respond accordingly.&nbsp;“In terms of what has been our position, yes, we have for many years it’s not a position just of this government in Delhi, I mean it’s been a national consensus that our dealings with Pakistan are bilateral and in this particular case, I can tell you that when I was in the room when Vice President Vance spoke to Prime Minister Modi on the night of 9th May saying that you know the Pakistanis would launch a very massive assault on India if we did not accept certain things and the prime minister was impervious to what the Pakistanis were threatening to do on the contrary he (PM Modi) indicated that there would be a response from us this was the night before.” Jaishankar said in the interview.&nbsp;“Something the Pakistanis did was attack us massively that night, we responded very quickly thereafter, and the next morning, Mr Rubio called me up and said the Pakistanis were ready to talk. So, I can only tell you from my personal experience what happened,” he said.&nbsp;Despite India’s denial, Trump has consistently claimed he brokered the peace between India and Pakistan. On May 10, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) spoke with his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to stop all military actions on land, in the air, and at sea.&nbsp;Indian Armed Forces on May 7 launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pagalgam that killed 26 civilians.

Earlier this week, the EAM told Newsweek that he was “in the room” when US Vice President JD Vance spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 9. He added that Vance told PM Modi that Pakistan would launch a massive attack on India if they did not accept certain things.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Jul 3) reiterated that the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan in May was the result of negotiations between the DGMOs of the two countries and not from any trade talks with the United States, dismissing claims made by US President Donald Trump. The Republican leader has said that he brokered a ceasefire understanding between the two neighbours using trade following military escalation after India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in response to the deadly Pahalagam terror attack. Speaking in a press conference in Washington during his three-day US visit, Jaishankar said, “The record of what happened at that time was very clear and the ceasefire was something which was negotiated between the DGMOs of the two countries.” He added, “I will leave it at that.” Earlier this week, the EAM told Newsweek that he was “in the room” when US Vice President JD Vance spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 9. He added that Vance told PM Modi that Pakistan would launch a massive attack on India if they did not accept certain things. PM Modi indicated that India would not remain silent and would respond accordingly. “In terms of what has been our position, yes, we have for many years it’s not a position just of this government in Delhi, I mean it’s been a national consensus that our dealings with Pakistan are bilateral and in this particular case, I can tell you that when I was in the room when Vice President Vance spoke to Prime Minister Modi on the night of 9th May saying that you know the Pakistanis would launch a very massive assault on India if we did not accept certain things and the prime minister was impervious to what the Pakistanis were threatening to do on the contrary he (PM Modi) indicated that there would be a response from us this was the night before.” Jaishankar said in the interview. “Something the Pakistanis did was attack us massively that night, we responded very quickly thereafter, and the next morning, Mr Rubio called me up and said the Pakistanis were ready to talk. So, I can only tell you from my personal experience what happened,” he said. Despite India’s denial, Trump has consistently claimed he brokered the peace between India and Pakistan. On May 10, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) spoke with his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to stop all military actions on land, in the air, and at sea. Indian Armed Forces on May 7 launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pagalgam that killed 26 civilians.

Earlier this week, the EAM told Newsweek that he was “in the room” when US Vice President JD Vance spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 9. He added that Vance told PM Modi that Pakistan would launch a massive attack on India if they did not accept certain things.

‘Record of what happened very clear’: Jaishankar again denies Trump’s claims on India-Pak ceasefire

In his first public remarks since India's Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistani military chief Gen Asim Munir made provocative remarks justifying terrorism targeting India. While the general tone of his remarks is nothing new, one must see it in the context of two related events: How he was hosted by US President Trump, who praised him in public just days after India and Pakistan ended the war; and how China helped Pakistan in thwarting a mention of Pahalgam in the recent defence ministers' meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Let us take a look at the events that followed the end of the three-day war between India and Pakistan in May, to understand what's giving fuel to Gen Munir to make such statements.<h2>But first, what exactly did Asim Munir say?</h2>In his remarks over the weekend, Munir raked up the Kashmir issue, and reiterated Pakistan's unwavering support for terrorism in the region, which he termed a 'legitimate struggle'. "We can never miss to mention the great sacrifice made by our Kashmiri brethren...we stand firm with Kashmiri people for their right of self-determination for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute…and aspiration of the people of Kashmir. What India tends to term as terrorism is in fact the legitimate struggle as per international convention," he said. "Those who endeavoured to subdue the will of Kashmiri people and sought conflict elimination instead of resolution have made it more relevant and pronounced through their own action," he added.<h2>How Asim Munir got encouragement from Trump</h2>Munir's remarks should be seen in the context of two important developments vis-à-vis the US. The first is Pakistan's continued insistence that Donald Trump helped end the war, for which the US president himself claimed credit several times, and Pakistan endorsed him for a Nobel Peace Prize. And the second is Trump hosting Munir for lunch on June 18. At their meeting, Trump said of Munir: "This man was extremely influential in stopping it [the war] from the Pakistani side, and PM [Indian Prime Minister Narendra] Modi from the Indian side.”&nbsp;“They were going at it, and both are nuclear countries. I stopped a war between two major nations,” he said, once again claiming credit for ending the war.&nbsp; India has firmly rejected this stance, stressing that the Operation Sindoor stopped after bilateral discussions.<h2>Munir is emboldened by SCO joint statement that did not include Pahalgam</h2>The Pahalgam terror attack by Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 people on April 22, mostly Indian tourists who were shot down, based on their Hindu religion. After Operation Sindoor to avenge the attacks, India made a diplomatic outreach across continents to make its stance clear on terrorism and on the end of the war.&nbsp; But India basically got stabbed in the back at the SCO defence ministers' meeting in China on June 26. The joint statement of the meeting omitted mention of Pahalgam, and did not address cross-border terrorism adequately. The Indian side, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, attributed this to objections by fellow SCO member Pakistan, and noted that China, the host of the meeting in Qingdao, was also the SCO chair.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-rift-widening-since-asim-munir-became-chief-9033652/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-rift-widening-since-asim-munir-became-chief-9033652/embed</a> India refused to sign, and the lack of consensus meant that no joint communique was issued.Amid India's protestations, one thing became clear: President Xi Jinping's China has allowed Pakistan's views to prevail at the SCO.&nbsp;&nbsp;Instead, the statement included references to militant activities in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, such as the Jaffar Express hijacking by the Balochistan Liberation Army on March 11. India, rightfully so, saw this as an effort by Pakistan, backed by China, to take away attention from Pakistan-fomented cross-border terrorism.<h2>SCO statement tried to include Balochistan, Munir played it up</h2>Seemingly emboldened by this, Munir made a mention about Balochistan in his weekend remarks, thus essentially twisting the narrative. He said in the context of recent attacks in Balochistan: "If the 1.3-million strong Indian Army can't intimidate us and they cannot quash us, these terrorists can subdue the armed forces of Pakistan? &nbsp;You 1,500 people say you will take away [Balochoatan], you will see that we will beat these terrorists very soon."<h2>A dangerous attempt to change the terrorism narrative</h2>Clearly, Pakistan is trying to turn the story upside down, as reflected in Munir's invective: In his mind, Pahalgam didn't happen. Terrorists sponsored and trained in Pakistan are ‘freedom fighters’. Only what's happening in places like Balochistan is terrorism. This is a dangerous twisting of the narrative. And the words of actions of Trump and China, giving credence and tacit support to a man like Asim Munir, will have dire consequences for the peace and stability of the South Asian region.&nbsp;

Clearly, Pakistan is trying to turn the story upside down, as reflected in the invective of Munir : In his mind, Pahalgam terror attack did not happen. 

In his first public remarks since India's Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistani military chief Gen Asim Munir made provocative remarks justifying terrorism targeting India. While the general tone of his remarks is nothing new, one must see it in the context of two related events: How he was hosted by US President Trump, who praised him in public just days after India and Pakistan ended the war; and how China helped Pakistan in thwarting a mention of Pahalgam in the recent defence ministers' meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Let us take a look at the events that followed the end of the three-day war between India and Pakistan in May, to understand what's giving fuel to Gen Munir to make such statements. But first, what exactly did Asim Munir say? In his remarks over the weekend, Munir raked up the Kashmir issue, and reiterated Pakistan's unwavering support for terrorism in the region, which he termed a 'legitimate struggle'. "We can never miss to mention the great sacrifice made by our Kashmiri brethren...we stand firm with Kashmiri people for their right of self-determination for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute…and aspiration of the people of Kashmir. What India tends to term as terrorism is in fact the legitimate struggle as per international convention," he said. "Those who endeavoured to subdue the will of Kashmiri people and sought conflict elimination instead of resolution have made it more relevant and pronounced through their own action," he added. How Asim Munir got encouragement from Trump Munir's remarks should be seen in the context of two important developments vis-à-vis the US. The first is Pakistan's continued insistence that Donald Trump helped end the war, for which the US president himself claimed credit several times, and Pakistan endorsed him for a Nobel Peace Prize. And the second is Trump hosting Munir for lunch on June 18. At their meeting, Trump said of Munir: "This man was extremely influential in stopping it [the war] from the Pakistani side, and PM [Indian Prime Minister Narendra] Modi from the Indian side.” “They were going at it, and both are nuclear countries. I stopped a war between two major nations,” he said, once again claiming credit for ending the war. India has firmly rejected this stance, stressing that the Operation Sindoor stopped after bilateral discussions. Munir is emboldened by SCO joint statement that did not include Pahalgam The Pahalgam terror attack by Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 people on April 22, mostly Indian tourists who were shot down, based on their Hindu religion. After Operation Sindoor to avenge the attacks, India made a diplomatic outreach across continents to make its stance clear on terrorism and on the end of the war. But India basically got stabbed in the back at the SCO defence ministers' meeting in China on June 26. The joint statement of the meeting omitted mention of Pahalgam, and did not address cross-border terrorism adequately. The Indian side, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, attributed this to objections by fellow SCO member Pakistan, and noted that China, the host of the meeting in Qingdao, was also the SCO chair. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-army-rift-widening-since-asim-munir-became-chief-9033652/embed India refused to sign, and the lack of consensus meant that no joint communique was issued. Amid India's protestations, one thing became clear: President Xi Jinping's China has allowed Pakistan's views to prevail at the SCO. Instead, the statement included references to militant activities in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, such as the Jaffar Express hijacking by the Balochistan Liberation Army on March 11. India, rightfully so, saw this as an effort by Pakistan, backed by China, to take away attention from Pakistan-fomented cross-border terrorism. SCO statement tried to include Balochistan, Munir played it up Seemingly emboldened by this, Munir made a mention about Balochistan in his weekend remarks, thus essentially twisting the narrative. He said in the context of recent attacks in Balochistan: "If the 1.3-million strong Indian Army can't intimidate us and they cannot quash us, these terrorists can subdue the armed forces of Pakistan? You 1,500 people say you will take away [Balochoatan], you will see that we will beat these terrorists very soon." A dangerous attempt to change the terrorism narrative Clearly, Pakistan is trying to turn the story upside down, as reflected in Munir's invective: In his mind, Pahalgam didn't happen. Terrorists sponsored and trained in Pakistan are ‘freedom fighters’. Only what's happening in places like Balochistan is terrorism. This is a dangerous twisting of the narrative. And the words of actions of Trump and China, giving credence and tacit support to a man like Asim Munir, will have dire consequences for the peace and stability of the South Asian region.

Clearly, Pakistan is trying to turn the story upside down, as reflected in Munir's invective: In his mind, Pahalgam didn't happen.&nbsp;

Asim Munir endorsed terrorism again but this time he is emboldened by Trump, Xi and that's dangerous - Here is why

India’s Embassy in Jakarta has dismissed reports claiming that the Indian Air Force lost jets to Pakistan during recent cross-border operations. The embassy stated that the remarks made by its defence attaché at a seminar were taken out of context and misrepresented in the media.“We have seen media reports regarding a presentation made by the Defence Attaché at a seminar. His remarks have been quoted out of context and the media reports are a misrepresentation of the intention and thrust of the presentation made by the speaker,” the embassy posted on X.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/f-16-operation-sindoor-pakistan-profit-us-brief-history-of-us-pakistan-f-16-deals-9065466">F-16 in fine print: How much Pakistan paid and how much profit US made? | A brief history of US-Pakistan F-16 deals</a><h2>Comments were about civilian control and non-escalation</h2>According to the embassy, Captain (Indian Navy) Shiv Kumar’s comments were meant to underline the Indian Armed Forces’ accountability to civilian leadership. “The presentation conveyed that the Indian Armed Forces serve under civilian political leadership unlike some other countries in our neighbourhood,” the embassy added.“It was also explained that the objective of Operation Sindoor was to target terrorist infrastructure and the Indian response was non-escalatory,” it said.<h2>What did Captain Shiv Kumar actually say?</h2>Captain Shiv Kumar, the defence attaché in Jakarta, made the remarks during a presentation at a seminar on 10 June at Universitas Dirgantara Marsekal Suryadarma. The seminar focused on analysing the India–Pakistan air conflict and Indonesia’s defence strategies.During the 35-minute talk, Kumar reportedly acknowledged that India did lose some aircraft, something Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan had previously hinted at. “I may not agree that we lost so many aircraft, but I do agree we did lose some aircraft,” Kumar stated. General Chauhan, had dismissed as “absolutely incorrect” Pakistan’s claim that it shot down six Indian jets.<h2>‘It’s not how many jets, but why they were lost’</h2>General Chauhan had previously told Bloomberg that the focus shouldn’t be on the number of jets lost, but rather on why they were downed. He said that after the initial losses, India altered its tactics.“After the loss, we changed our tactics and we went for the military installations. So we first achieved suppression of enemy air defences, and then that’s why all our attacks could easily go through using BrahMos missiles,” Kumar added, referring to the Indian strike on Pakistani air bases on 10 May.<h2>Congress accuses government of misleading the nation</h2>The Congress party seized on these comments to attack the government, accusing it of withholding the truth about India’s losses in Operation Sindoor. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh wrote on X, “First the Chief of Defence Staff makes important revelations in Singapore. Then a senior defence official follows up from Indonesia. But why is the PM refusing to preside over an all-party meeting?”Pawan Khera, another senior Congress leader, alleged the government “misled the nation from the start.” He added that previous references to losses were vague and only acknowledged indirectly by IAF officials.Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also criticised the government after General Chauhan’s comments, demanding a special session of Parliament to discuss the matter.

According to the embassy, Captain (Indian Navy) Shiv Kumar’s comments were meant to underline the Indian Armed Forces’ accountability to civilian leadership. 

India’s Embassy in Jakarta has dismissed reports claiming that the Indian Air Force lost jets to Pakistan during recent cross-border operations. The embassy stated that the remarks made by its defence attaché at a seminar were taken out of context and misrepresented in the media. “We have seen media reports regarding a presentation made by the Defence Attaché at a seminar. His remarks have been quoted out of context and the media reports are a misrepresentation of the intention and thrust of the presentation made by the speaker,” the embassy posted on X. Also read: F-16 in fine print: How much Pakistan paid and how much profit US made? | A brief history of US-Pakistan F-16 deals Comments were about civilian control and non-escalation According to the embassy, Captain (Indian Navy) Shiv Kumar’s comments were meant to underline the Indian Armed Forces’ accountability to civilian leadership. “The presentation conveyed that the Indian Armed Forces serve under civilian political leadership unlike some other countries in our neighbourhood,” the embassy added. “It was also explained that the objective of Operation Sindoor was to target terrorist infrastructure and the Indian response was non-escalatory,” it said. What did Captain Shiv Kumar actually say? Captain Shiv Kumar, the defence attaché in Jakarta, made the remarks during a presentation at a seminar on 10 June at Universitas Dirgantara Marsekal Suryadarma. The seminar focused on analysing the India–Pakistan air conflict and Indonesia’s defence strategies. During the 35-minute talk, Kumar reportedly acknowledged that India did lose some aircraft, something Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan had previously hinted at. “I may not agree that we lost so many aircraft, but I do agree we did lose some aircraft,” Kumar stated. General Chauhan, had dismissed as “absolutely incorrect” Pakistan’s claim that it shot down six Indian jets. ‘It’s not how many jets, but why they were lost’ General Chauhan had previously told Bloomberg that the focus shouldn’t be on the number of jets lost, but rather on why they were downed. He said that after the initial losses, India altered its tactics. “After the loss, we changed our tactics and we went for the military installations. So we first achieved suppression of enemy air defences, and then that’s why all our attacks could easily go through using BrahMos missiles,” Kumar added, referring to the Indian strike on Pakistani air bases on 10 May. Congress accuses government of misleading the nation The Congress party seized on these comments to attack the government, accusing it of withholding the truth about India’s losses in Operation Sindoor. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh wrote on X, “First the Chief of Defence Staff makes important revelations in Singapore. Then a senior defence official follows up from Indonesia. But why is the PM refusing to preside over an all-party meeting?” Pawan Khera, another senior Congress leader, alleged the government “misled the nation from the start.” He added that previous references to losses were vague and only acknowledged indirectly by IAF officials. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also criticised the government after General Chauhan’s comments, demanding a special session of Parliament to discuss the matter.

According to the embassy, Captain (Indian Navy) Shiv Kumar’s comments were meant to underline the Indian Armed Forces’ accountability to civilian leadership.&nbsp;

'Out of context, misrepresented': Did India lose jets to Pakistan? India reacts to remarks by defence attaché in Indonesia

Pakistan's Army chief, Asim Munir, &nbsp;has once again talked about Pakistan's stance on its unwavering support to terrorism. In his first public statement since India's Operation Sindoor, Munir was seen talking at the Naval Academy's passing out parade in Karachi. The Pakistani general was addressing the graduating cadets of the Pakistan Naval Academy, their families, and assembled dignitaries, including foreign representatives. In his speech, the Army chief accused India of adopting a "hubristic mindset" and escalating regional tensions. He vowed a decisive response as well to any future "aggression" by India in his latest accusation against the country.&nbsp;"As we steadily but surely build our comprehensive national power, any enemy acting on perceived vulnerability of Pakistan under the illusion of strategic impunity or miscalculation would get an assured, swift and very befitting response," Munir said. Munir claimed in his speech that Islamabad is a "net regional stabiliser" and claimed that Pakistan has responded "resolutely" to India's Operation Sindoor, which he accused an "unprovoked" military aggression. Operation Sindoor was a retaliatory attack by India on nine terror sites in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan. "Despite provocations, Pakistan displayed restraint and maturity, reaffirming its commitment to regional peace," Munir was seen saying in his speech in the circulated video.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Pak Army Chief Munir stokes tensions, raises Kashmir issue again, reaffirms Pakistan’s support for what it calls a “legitimate struggle,” widely seen as backing terrorism in the region <a href="https://t.co/pSj6pZqzIo">pic.twitter.com/pSj6pZqzIo</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1939249333682971110?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Munir claimed in his speech that India deliberately created tension in Pakistan just as the country was nearing the elimination of terrorism. Not only that, Munir also brought the Kashmir issue in his speech, once again. He claimed that "at such a time, we must remember the sacrifices of our Kashmiri brothers who are struggling against India’s illegal occupation."&nbsp;"Pakistan is a strong advocate for a just resolution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people,” the Pakistani general added in his speech.&nbsp;

In his first public statement since Operation Sindoor, Munir was seen talking at the Naval Academy passing out parade in Karachi. 

Pakistan's Army chief, Asim Munir, has once again talked about Pakistan's stance on its unwavering support to terrorism. In his first public statement since India's Operation Sindoor, Munir was seen talking at the Naval Academy's passing out parade in Karachi. The Pakistani general was addressing the graduating cadets of the Pakistan Naval Academy, their families, and assembled dignitaries, including foreign representatives. In his speech, the Army chief accused India of adopting a "hubristic mindset" and escalating regional tensions. He vowed a decisive response as well to any future "aggression" by India in his latest accusation against the country. "As we steadily but surely build our comprehensive national power, any enemy acting on perceived vulnerability of Pakistan under the illusion of strategic impunity or miscalculation would get an assured, swift and very befitting response," Munir said. Munir claimed in his speech that Islamabad is a "net regional stabiliser" and claimed that Pakistan has responded "resolutely" to India's Operation Sindoor, which he accused an "unprovoked" military aggression. Operation Sindoor was a retaliatory attack by India on nine terror sites in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan. "Despite provocations, Pakistan displayed restraint and maturity, reaffirming its commitment to regional peace," Munir was seen saying in his speech in the circulated video.

In his first public statement since India's Operation Sindoor, Munir was seen talking at the Naval Academy's passing out parade in Karachi.&nbsp;

Is Pakistan doubling down on terrorism? From military to Kashmir issue: Asim Munir's first public speech after Operation Sindoor decoded

An Indian Navy clerk who was stationed at the naval headquarters in Delhi has been taken into custody in Jaipur on charges of leaking a series of defence secrets to a Pakistani handler, including information on Operation Sindoor, in exchange for $600 (₹50,000). "Yadav admitted that he was paid around ₹2 lakh in total for the information he shared. This also included ₹50,000 for leaking information regarding Operation Sindoor," the inspector general of police (CID-security) Vishnu Kant Gupta said, adding some of the payments were made via cryptocurrency.&nbsp;Citing intelligence sources, PTI also reported that the trail of espionage started on Facebook, where the Pakistani handler with the pseudonym "Priya Sharma" sent a friend request to Yadav. Their exchange soon became regular and subsequently moved to WhatsApp, before finally switching to Telegram, a messaging application known for its encryption. Police said that Yadav initially got paid in small amounts, between ₹5,000 and ₹6,000, for lower-grade information. But as the handler coerced him to supply more sensitive material, he started sending classified defence information for higher payments. “He was lured by money and ended up leaking sensitive information from the Navy headquarters,” Gupta said. “After monitoring his social media activity and confirming his links with a Pakistani handler, he was detained in Jaipur for joint interrogation involving multiple national agencies,” the IGP added.<h2>Who is Vishal Yadav?</h2>Yadav, as per reports, is a resident of the North Indian state of Haryana and was employed as a clerk at the Delhi-based naval headquarters. He stands accused of spying on India and passing on sensitive information about the Indian naval forces and other defence units to a female handler in Pakistan, in exchange for money. He is believed to have done this for years, including the recent Operation Sindoor, which followed the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam in April.&nbsp;He was arrested following surveillance. Data recovered from his cellphone reportedly includes classified military documents and communications, which were shared with a foreign agent. Citing senior police officer Vishnukant Gupta, NDTV reported that the CID intelligence united has been closely keeping a track on espionage activities linked to Pakistani agencies. Officials during surveillance found that Yadav was in regular contact with a Pakistani handler posing as 'Priya Sharma' on social media. She allegedly transferred payments in exchange for restricted defence-related intelligence. Investigators found that the spy, Yadav, had an online gambling addiction and had been motivated by financial desperation, primarily driven by gambling losses.

Price of honesty: Honey-trapped by ‘Priya’, Navy staffer leaked secrets to Pakistan for less than $600

An Indian Navy clerk who was stationed at the naval headquarters in Delhi has been taken into custody in Jaipur on charges of leaking a series of defence secrets to a Pakistani handler, including information on Operation Sindoor, in exchange for $600 (₹50,000). "Yadav admitted that he was paid around ₹2 lakh in total for the information he shared. This also included ₹50,000 for leaking information regarding Operation Sindoor," the inspector general of police (CID-security) Vishnu Kant Gupta said, adding some of the payments were made via cryptocurrency. Citing intelligence sources, PTI also reported that the trail of espionage started on Facebook, where the Pakistani handler with the pseudonym "Priya Sharma" sent a friend request to Yadav. Their exchange soon became regular and subsequently moved to WhatsApp, before finally switching to Telegram, a messaging application known for its encryption. Police said that Yadav initially got paid in small amounts, between ₹5,000 and ₹6,000, for lower-grade information. But as the handler coerced him to supply more sensitive material, he started sending classified defence information for higher payments. “He was lured by money and ended up leaking sensitive information from the Navy headquarters,” Gupta said. “After monitoring his social media activity and confirming his links with a Pakistani handler, he was detained in Jaipur for joint interrogation involving multiple national agencies,” the IGP added. Who is Vishal Yadav? Yadav, as per reports, is a resident of the North Indian state of Haryana and was employed as a clerk at the Delhi-based naval headquarters. He stands accused of spying on India and passing on sensitive information about the Indian naval forces and other defence units to a female handler in Pakistan, in exchange for money. He is believed to have done this for years, including the recent Operation Sindoor, which followed the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam in April. He was arrested following surveillance. Data recovered from his cellphone reportedly includes classified military documents and communications, which were shared with a foreign agent. Citing senior police officer Vishnukant Gupta, NDTV reported that the CID intelligence united has been closely keeping a track on espionage activities linked to Pakistani agencies. Officials during surveillance found that Yadav was in regular contact with a Pakistani handler posing as 'Priya Sharma' on social media. She allegedly transferred payments in exchange for restricted defence-related intelligence. Investigators found that the spy, Yadav, had an online gambling addiction and had been motivated by financial desperation, primarily driven by gambling losses.

Yadav was arrested following surveillance. Data recovered from his cellphone reportedly includes classified military documents and communications, which were shared with a foreign agent

Pakistan is reportedly developing a nuclear-armed intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that could reach India and the United States, according to a new report published by Foreign Affairs. This comes amid speculation that Pakistan is expanding its nuclear capabilities with support from China in the wake of Operation Sindoor.Citing US officials, the report suggests that if Pakistan completes this project, Washington would be forced to consider the country a nuclear adversary, a term currently reserved for Russia, China and North Korea. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-pakistan-got-the-nuclear-bomb-india-pahalgam-terror-attack-9007958">'Will go hungry, but get the bomb’: How Pakistan got the nuclear bomb? A story of desperation, fear, and rivalry with India</a>“If Pakistan acquires an ICBM, Washington will have no choice but to treat the country as a nuclear adversary. No other country with ICBMs that can target the United States is considered a friend,” US officials reportedly said.<h2>What is Intercontinental Nuclear Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)?</h2>Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) are long-range missiles capable of delivering nuclear or conventional warheads over a distance of more than 5,500 kilometres. Possessing ICBMs places a country in a different league of global military power.<h2>A shift in strategy after Iran?</h2>Pakistan has traditionally focused its nuclear deterrence on India, with its current arsenal comprising short- and medium-range missiles. The country’s most advanced missile to date, the Shaheen-III, tested in 2022, can strike targets up to 2,700 km away, enough to reach key Indian cities but far short of the United States.The report suggests that Islamabad may be pursuing an ICBM programme to prevent the kind of pre-emptive strike that Washington launched against Iran’s nuclear facilities.<h2>A response to India’s growing capabilities?</h2>Pakistan’s missile ambition could also be driven by India’s rapid military growth. Pakistan has long seen its nuclear arsenal as a balancing tool. As per the report, this missile could also act as a deterrent against American Washington is closely watching Pakistan’s missile ambitions. Last year, the US imposed fresh sanctions on the National Development Complex, the state-run body overseeing the missile programme, and three other Pakistani firms.Islamabad condemned the measures, calling them “biased.”

Pakistan has traditionally focused its nuclear deterrence on India, with its current arsenal comprising short- and medium-range missiles.

Pakistan is reportedly developing a nuclear-armed intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that could reach India and the United States, according to a new report published by Foreign Affairs. This comes amid speculation that Pakistan is expanding its nuclear capabilities with support from China in the wake of Operation Sindoor. Citing US officials, the report suggests that if Pakistan completes this project, Washington would be forced to consider the country a nuclear adversary, a term currently reserved for Russia, China and North Korea. Also read: 'Will go hungry, but get the bomb’: How Pakistan got the nuclear bomb? A story of desperation, fear, and rivalry with India “If Pakistan acquires an ICBM, Washington will have no choice but to treat the country as a nuclear adversary. No other country with ICBMs that can target the United States is considered a friend,” US officials reportedly said. What is Intercontinental Nuclear Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)? Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) are long-range missiles capable of delivering nuclear or conventional warheads over a distance of more than 5,500 kilometres. Possessing ICBMs places a country in a different league of global military power. A shift in strategy after Iran? Pakistan has traditionally focused its nuclear deterrence on India, with its current arsenal comprising short- and medium-range missiles. The country’s most advanced missile to date, the Shaheen-III, tested in 2022, can strike targets up to 2,700 km away, enough to reach key Indian cities but far short of the United States. The report suggests that Islamabad may be pursuing an ICBM programme to prevent the kind of pre-emptive strike that Washington launched against Iran’s nuclear facilities. A response to India’s growing capabilities? Pakistan’s missile ambition could also be driven by India’s rapid military growth. Pakistan has long seen its nuclear arsenal as a balancing tool. As per the report, this missile could also act as a deterrent against American Washington is closely watching Pakistan’s missile ambitions. Last year, the US imposed fresh sanctions on the National Development Complex, the state-run body overseeing the missile programme, and three other Pakistani firms. Islamabad condemned the measures, calling them “biased.”

Pakistan has traditionally focused its nuclear deterrence on India, with its current arsenal comprising short- and medium-range missiles.

Pakistan developing nuclear missile that could hit India, US: What are Intercontinental Nuclear Ballistic Missiles? Why is Washington worried?

At the end of 12 days of mutual aerial bombardment, Iran and Israel appear to have agreed on a ceasefire, brokered and announced by US President Donald Trump after American B2 bombers attacked suspected Iranian nuclear sites. The one-off US Operation Midnight Hammer looked very similar to Operation Sindoor, India's military action against Pakistan to avenge the Pahalgam terror attacks. India ended the operation just three days after bombings that targeted Pakistani terror infrastructure and hit near its suspected nuclear installations. Though military officials and political leadership described Operation Sindoor as ‘ongoing’, the hostilities have ended for now. The fact that what threatened to be long-drawn wars ended rather abruptly makes one wonder if we are in the era of quick-fix air wars, as opposed to long wars of attrition.<h2>Operation Sindoor, Operation Rising Lion, Operation Midnight Hammer: Quick operations are better than wars of attrition</h2>As long as the military objectives are achieved, quick, targeted air operations are more practical. In the era of drones, long-range missiles and artificial intelligence, such operations avoid boots on the ground. Israel is already in a war of attrition with Hamas in the Gaza strip, which started after the terror attack of 7 October 2023. The military objectives of that war - defeating Hamas and releasing Israeli hostages it had taken in 2023 - have not been achieved despite more than two years of war. This is an asymmetrical war, as Hamas continues to fight the far better-equipped Israeli Army in spite of its leadership being wiped out in Mossad-led intelligence operations both inside Gaza and abroad.<h2>Ukraine-Russia war, US occupation of Afghanistan: Cautionary tales on how not to conduct warfare</h2>The Russia-Ukraine conflict is an instance of how long wars of attrition are not the order of the day in the present world. Perhaps the quick operations as seen in India-Pakistan and Israel-Iran conflicts would now become a model for future wars, given the failure of long wars of attrition.&nbsp; Another example of the failure of a long and costly military mission is from Afghanistan. The US invaded it with the intention of removing the Taliban regime in October 2001. But after 20 years of occupation, the US Army left Afghanistan in a messy exit as the Taliban rode back to power in August 2021, with hardly any resistance.&nbsp;<h2>People are not interested in joining as foot soldiers for armies</h2>Something that stood out in the Russia-Ukraine war is how difficult it was for both sides to recruit foot soldiers. There have been reports of draft dodging by Russians. North Korean soldiers reportedly joined &nbsp;Russia in fighting Ukraine. Russia reportedly recruited soldiers from jails, meaning hardened criminals were sent to the frontline. There were difficulties in recruitment for the Ukrainian Army, too. Affiliate groups, militias and mercenaries from abroad are fighting alongside the regular Ukrainian forces.<h2>Drones and missiles: Future of warfare will have to be lean and smart</h2>The use of drones in all these wars is a new trend that is here to stay. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles have become the face of wars in Ukraine, as well as in the Iran-Israel conflict and Operation Sindoor. Taking out enemies from the comfort of one's room or office is a much cheaper and effective method than sending the troops to the ground.<h2>Interest is growing on non-contact warfare</h2>The emerging new form of war consists of the following main aspects: Identify enemy targets using a combination of on-ground intelligence and satellite imagery; decide on the type of munitions and launchpads (Operation Midnight Hammer of the US, for instance, fired the torpedo missiles from submarines, while the B2 stealth bombers attacked from the air); use numerous drones and missiles to overwhelm the enemey's defence system, and exit without pilot casualties and minimum loss of hardware whenever possible. In Operation Sindoor, all Indian pilots were back home. In Iran's counterattacks, dozens of drones attempted to exhaust the Israeli air defence systems. Drones are seen as dispensable, as the cost involved in developing them would be less than the standing cost of armies. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-ceasefire-trump-tells-israel-to-stop-attacking-iran-report-1750834499577/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-ceasefire-trump-tells-israel-to-stop-attacking-iran-report-1750834499577/embed</a> One thing is clear: Non-contact, air-dominated warfare is going to be a more prominent aspect of combat in future than the olden days of trench warfare and face-to-face combat. Whether it is India's Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, or Israel's Operation Rising Lion against Iran, Iran's counteroffensive, or Operation Midnight Hammer, the salient features remain the same: Air war, pinpointed targets, extensive planning, and use of unmanned vehicles.&nbsp;

The new trend is to identify enemy targets, decide on the type of munitions and launchpads, use numerous drones and missiles to overwhelm the enemy defence system, and exit without casualties and minimal hardware loss.

At the end of 12 days of mutual aerial bombardment, Iran and Israel appear to have agreed on a ceasefire, brokered and announced by US President Donald Trump after American B2 bombers attacked suspected Iranian nuclear sites. The one-off US Operation Midnight Hammer looked very similar to Operation Sindoor, India's military action against Pakistan to avenge the Pahalgam terror attacks. India ended the operation just three days after bombings that targeted Pakistani terror infrastructure and hit near its suspected nuclear installations. Though military officials and political leadership described Operation Sindoor as ‘ongoing’, the hostilities have ended for now. The fact that what threatened to be long-drawn wars ended rather abruptly makes one wonder if we are in the era of quick-fix air wars, as opposed to long wars of attrition. Operation Sindoor, Operation Rising Lion, Operation Midnight Hammer: Quick operations are better than wars of attrition As long as the military objectives are achieved, quick, targeted air operations are more practical. In the era of drones, long-range missiles and artificial intelligence, such operations avoid boots on the ground. Israel is already in a war of attrition with Hamas in the Gaza strip, which started after the terror attack of 7 October 2023. The military objectives of that war - defeating Hamas and releasing Israeli hostages it had taken in 2023 - have not been achieved despite more than two years of war. This is an asymmetrical war, as Hamas continues to fight the far better-equipped Israeli Army in spite of its leadership being wiped out in Mossad-led intelligence operations both inside Gaza and abroad. Ukraine-Russia war, US occupation of Afghanistan: Cautionary tales on how not to conduct warfare The Russia-Ukraine conflict is an instance of how long wars of attrition are not the order of the day in the present world. Perhaps the quick operations as seen in India-Pakistan and Israel-Iran conflicts would now become a model for future wars, given the failure of long wars of attrition. Another example of the failure of a long and costly military mission is from Afghanistan. The US invaded it with the intention of removing the Taliban regime in October 2001. But after 20 years of occupation, the US Army left Afghanistan in a messy exit as the Taliban rode back to power in August 2021, with hardly any resistance. People are not interested in joining as foot soldiers for armies Something that stood out in the Russia-Ukraine war is how difficult it was for both sides to recruit foot soldiers. There have been reports of draft dodging by Russians. North Korean soldiers reportedly joined Russia in fighting Ukraine. Russia reportedly recruited soldiers from jails, meaning hardened criminals were sent to the frontline. There were difficulties in recruitment for the Ukrainian Army, too. Affiliate groups, militias and mercenaries from abroad are fighting alongside the regular Ukrainian forces. Drones and missiles: Future of warfare will have to be lean and smart The use of drones in all these wars is a new trend that is here to stay. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles have become the face of wars in Ukraine, as well as in the Iran-Israel conflict and Operation Sindoor. Taking out enemies from the comfort of one's room or office is a much cheaper and effective method than sending the troops to the ground. Interest is growing on non-contact warfare The emerging new form of war consists of the following main aspects: Identify enemy targets using a combination of on-ground intelligence and satellite imagery; decide on the type of munitions and launchpads (Operation Midnight Hammer of the US, for instance, fired the torpedo missiles from submarines, while the B2 stealth bombers attacked from the air); use numerous drones and missiles to overwhelm the enemey's defence system, and exit without pilot casualties and minimum loss of hardware whenever possible. In Operation Sindoor, all Indian pilots were back home. In Iran's counterattacks, dozens of drones attempted to exhaust the Israeli air defence systems. Drones are seen as dispensable, as the cost involved in developing them would be less than the standing cost of armies. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-ceasefire-trump-tells-israel-to-stop-attacking-iran-report-1750834499577/embed One thing is clear: Non-contact, air-dominated warfare is going to be a more prominent aspect of combat in future than the olden days of trench warfare and face-to-face combat. Whether it is India's Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, or Israel's Operation Rising Lion against Iran, Iran's counteroffensive, or Operation Midnight Hammer, the salient features remain the same: Air war, pinpointed targets, extensive planning, and use of unmanned vehicles.

Perhaps the quick operations as seen in India-Pakistan and Israel-Iran conflicts would now become a model for future wars, given the failure of long wars of attrition.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Operation Sindoor, Operation Rising Lion and Operation Midnight Hammer: Are we in the era of quickfix air wars?

Pakistan has nominated US President Donald Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for his supposed role in the recent India-Pakistan conflict. Writing about it in a post on X, the Pakistan government praised Trump for his "decisive diplomatic intervention and pivotal leadership" when India and Pakistan were engaged in a war-like situation only a few weeks back. Notably, only a few days back, Trump hosted Pakistan’s Army Chief, Asim Munir, at the White House. It was a rare and unexpected meeting, the details of which have not been disclosed yet.“Government of Pakistan Recommends President Donald J. Trump for 2026 Nobel Peace Prize," the X message read. "The Government of Pakistan has decided to formally recommend President Donald J. Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, in recognition of his decisive diplomatic intervention and pivotal leadership during the recent India-Pakistan crisis."&nbsp;<h2>Trump and his quest for the Nobel Prize</h2>&nbsp;This comes a day after Trump tooted his own horn, saying he has brokered so many peace deals between countries that he should have gotten the Nobel Peace Prize "four or five times." &nbsp;"They won't give me a Nobel Peace Prize because they only give it to liberals.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pats-own-back-for-congo-rwanda-peace-deal-claims-won-t-get-a-nobel-peace-prize-no-matter-what-i-do-1750467827956">Trump complains 'won't get Nobel Peace Prize no matter what I do,' pats own back for Congo-Rwanda peace deal</a>&nbsp;On Friday, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he had brokered a peace deal between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. He quickly changed the subject and wrote, "I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize no matter what I do". &nbsp;"I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize for this, I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize for stopping the war between India and Pakistan"."I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize for stopping the war between Serbia and Kosovo."&nbsp;&nbsp;He added that he was responsible for the peace between "Egypt and Ethiopia" and for "doing the Abraham Accords in the Middle East".&nbsp;<h2>Trump-Munir meeting</h2>&nbsp;According to Geo News, the meeting between Trump and Munir happened over lunch. Pakistan has been vocal about Trump playing a major role in averting a major crisis between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack in April.Munir had earlier praised Trump and advocated for a Nobel nomination for the US president, saying he was crucial in de-escalating the situation between India and Pakistan. Trump invited Munir to the White House after Munir praised him and called on the world to confer the Nobel Peace Prize on him.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-claims-us-brokered-ceasefire-between-india-and-pakistan-new-delhi-objects-9069882/embed&nbsp;White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said before the meeting, “Trump would host Munir after he called for the president to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for preventing a nuclear war between India and Pakistan."Trump had claimed to have brokered the ceasefire between India and Pakistan after the two countries attacked each other over four days. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 and struck terror camps in Pakistan and Pak-occupied Kashmir. Islamabad retaliated, and after four days, the two countries agreed to a ceasefire. India dismissed claims that Trump played a role, while Pakistan acknowledged he played a part in the deal.Meanwhile, in Pakistan, the meeting between Trump and Munir is being touted as a major diplomatic success for Pakistan. Munir was promoted to Field Marshal later, making him the first officer to hold the title since Ayub Khan in 1959.

Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize? Pakistan has nominated US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, saying he was crucial in stopping the conflict with India. 

Pakistan has nominated US President Donald Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for his supposed role in the recent India-Pakistan conflict. Writing about it in a post on X, the Pakistan government praised Trump for his "decisive diplomatic intervention and pivotal leadership" when India and Pakistan were engaged in a war-like situation only a few weeks back. Notably, only a few days back, Trump hosted Pakistan’s Army Chief, Asim Munir, at the White House. It was a rare and unexpected meeting, the details of which have not been disclosed yet. “Government of Pakistan Recommends President Donald J. Trump for 2026 Nobel Peace Prize," the X message read. "The Government of Pakistan has decided to formally recommend President Donald J. Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, in recognition of his decisive diplomatic intervention and pivotal leadership during the recent India-Pakistan crisis." Trump and his quest for the Nobel Prize This comes a day after Trump tooted his own horn, saying he has brokered so many peace deals between countries that he should have gotten the Nobel Peace Prize "four or five times." "They won't give me a Nobel Peace Prize because they only give it to liberals.” Also Read: Trump complains 'won't get Nobel Peace Prize no matter what I do,' pats own back for Congo-Rwanda peace deal On Friday, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he had brokered a peace deal between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. He quickly changed the subject and wrote, "I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize no matter what I do". "I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize for this, I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize for stopping the war between India and Pakistan". "I won’t get a Nobel Peace Prize for stopping the war between Serbia and Kosovo." He added that he was responsible for the peace between "Egypt and Ethiopia" and for "doing the Abraham Accords in the Middle East". Trump-Munir meeting According to Geo News, the meeting between Trump and Munir happened over lunch. Pakistan has been vocal about Trump playing a major role in averting a major crisis between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack in April. Munir had earlier praised Trump and advocated for a Nobel nomination for the US president, saying he was crucial in de-escalating the situation between India and Pakistan. Trump invited Munir to the White House after Munir praised him and called on the world to confer the Nobel Peace Prize on him. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-claims-us-brokered-ceasefire-between-india-and-pakistan-new-delhi-objects-9069882/embed White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said before the meeting, “Trump would host Munir after he called for the president to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for preventing a nuclear war between India and Pakistan." Trump had claimed to have brokered the ceasefire between India and Pakistan after the two countries attacked each other over four days. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 and struck terror camps in Pakistan and Pak-occupied Kashmir. Islamabad retaliated, and after four days, the two countries agreed to a ceasefire. India dismissed claims that Trump played a role, while Pakistan acknowledged he played a part in the deal. Meanwhile, in Pakistan, the meeting between Trump and Munir is being touted as a major diplomatic success for Pakistan. Munir was promoted to Field Marshal later, making him the first officer to hold the title since Ayub Khan in 1959.

Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize? Pakistan has nominated US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, saying he was crucial in stopping the conflict with India.&nbsp;

Pakistan recommends Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize after he rues not getting one for 'stopping wars'

Pakistan is often called a failed state. At other points, it has been called a rogue state or client state. That, of course, refers not to the country in general but to its army-centred ruling elite, which often sidesteps or steamrolls the interests of ordinary citizens to uphold its power base and worldview. Military coups and martial laws at various times only testify to this fact. The question to ask is: how is it that despite all the criticism and flak it faces, the military apparatus that runs the Pakistani state, sometimes in letter and almost always in spirit, has the right of way both at home and, as it turns out, abroad?&nbsp;The answer might lie in a simple insight: Pakistan’s estate is a vital asset–which is to say that what matters seems to be more about real estate than democracy, governance, nationhood or constitution that helps an elite stay firmly in the saddle despite hard evidence that Islamabad overlooks and/or nurtures terror groups or Most-Wanted figures such as Lashkar -e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Muhammad and its leaders or the infamous Osama Bin Laden who was killed next to the Abbottabad cantonment. &nbsp;After US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan’s army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir merely weeks after India’s May 7 Operation Sindoor that targeted Pakistan-based terror camps (followed by army-blessed funerals for some of those killed in the operation), it is time to think deep to understand what is really going on.Tongue firmly in cheek, and perhaps with bull’s eye precision, we can say that Pakistan’s special position is more a matter of diplomatic geography than political history. Never mind the Internet memes that mock the Trump-Munir meeting at a “private” luncheon. &nbsp;“Location, location, location,” is a popular phrase in the real estate business that stresses on the importance of geographical coordinates in determining the value of a property. Though the statement is often attributed to British real estate tycoon Harold Samuel, it has been traced back to a classified ad in the Chicago Tribune newspaper in 1926.&nbsp;Pakistan’s location has been a key asset that has saved it from many a diplomatic woe—and one might add, from the way its uniformed rulers manage it.&nbsp;You can say that thrice, like in the old saying. This is because Pakistan is strategically located next to Afghanistan, Iran and China, all of which have influenced diplomatic positions in Washington and Moscow at various points in time.&nbsp;When invading Russian soldiers marched into Afghanistan in 1979 as part of the then Soviet Union’s plan to install a puppet regime, it was Pakistan that helped the US counter it by hosting the “Mujahideen” or liberation groups towards the fag end of the Cold War.&nbsp;Bin Laden’s ideas of forming a global jihadist movement can be traced back to his presence in Pakistan. It is ironic that not only the rise of his Al Qaeda group that carried out the 9/11 attacks in New York in 2001, but also the Taliban that currently rules Afghanistan and bitterly opposes the US, rose from the remnants of the Mujahideen. US foreign policy has more often than not been guided by short-term expediency than long-term principles, and that might explain how the best of India’s diplomatic efforts and evidence do little to sway the State Department.&nbsp;As Trump woos Munir, who was appointed Field Marshal after Operation Sindoor, what we need to remember is that under the Republicans in general and the current White House incumbent in particular, the US is less a guardian angel of democracy or civilised diplomacy and more a power that looks after its strategic interests and trading might. It is generously helped by an influential Jewish lobby that has suddenly shifted America’s focus away from trade talks with China towards a combative engagement involving Israel and Iran. India’s Operation Sindoor had nothing to do with Iran, which has emerged as some kind of a benign opportunity for Pakistan to engage with the US.&nbsp;After the din ebbs on the Israel-Iran conflict, China will remain exactly where it is on the world map, helping Islamabad play a geopolitical card vis-à-vis the US. &nbsp;It is time for a reminder that for all practical purposes, Munir is now in control of the elected civilian government. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, like that of the Kargil War in 1999, gives the army an upper hand. Not that it needed any. Opposition leader and former prime minister Imran Khan has been in jail for two years after an arrest led by the paramilitary inside the premises of the Islamabad High Court in a case involving his confrontation with the country’s army. &nbsp;Barely a week after the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that led to Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan government named Asim Malik, a serving military general, as its National Security Adviser. A former head of the spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), he is no ordinary general. His appointment to the NSA’s job, over the head of civilian officials, shows who is in command in Pakistan.It might be fair to describe some of the events and non-events following Operation Sindoor as a setback for Indian diplomacy but it pays to remember that not all of it can be linked to what New Delhi does or does not do. The sheer location of Pakistan and the way Islamabad’s military lords use it, involves a grim lesson on the importance of location.&nbsp; &nbsp;The “geo” tag in geopolitics exists for a reason.

It is time for a reminder that for all practical purposes, Munir is now in control of the elected civilian government. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, like that of the Kargil War in 1999, gives the army an upper hand. Not that it needed any.

Pakistan is often called a failed state. At other points, it has been called a rogue state or client state. That, of course, refers not to the country in general but to its army-centred ruling elite, which often sidesteps or steamrolls the interests of ordinary citizens to uphold its power base and worldview. Military coups and martial laws at various times only testify to this fact. The question to ask is: how is it that despite all the criticism and flak it faces, the military apparatus that runs the Pakistani state, sometimes in letter and almost always in spirit, has the right of way both at home and, as it turns out, abroad? The answer might lie in a simple insight: Pakistan’s estate is a vital asset–which is to say that what matters seems to be more about real estate than democracy, governance, nationhood or constitution that helps an elite stay firmly in the saddle despite hard evidence that Islamabad overlooks and/or nurtures terror groups or Most-Wanted figures such as Lashkar -e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Muhammad and its leaders or the infamous Osama Bin Laden who was killed next to the Abbottabad cantonment. After US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan’s army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir merely weeks after India’s May 7 Operation Sindoor that targeted Pakistan-based terror camps (followed by army-blessed funerals for some of those killed in the operation), it is time to think deep to understand what is really going on. Tongue firmly in cheek, and perhaps with bull’s eye precision, we can say that Pakistan’s special position is more a matter of diplomatic geography than political history. Never mind the Internet memes that mock the Trump-Munir meeting at a “private” luncheon. “Location, location, location,” is a popular phrase in the real estate business that stresses on the importance of geographical coordinates in determining the value of a property. Though the statement is often attributed to British real estate tycoon Harold Samuel, it has been traced back to a classified ad in the Chicago Tribune newspaper in 1926. Pakistan’s location has been a key asset that has saved it from many a diplomatic woe—and one might add, from the way its uniformed rulers manage it. You can say that thrice, like in the old saying. This is because Pakistan is strategically located next to Afghanistan, Iran and China, all of which have influenced diplomatic positions in Washington and Moscow at various points in time. When invading Russian soldiers marched into Afghanistan in 1979 as part of the then Soviet Union’s plan to install a puppet regime, it was Pakistan that helped the US counter it by hosting the “Mujahideen” or liberation groups towards the fag end of the Cold War. Bin Laden’s ideas of forming a global jihadist movement can be traced back to his presence in Pakistan. It is ironic that not only the rise of his Al Qaeda group that carried out the 9/11 attacks in New York in 2001, but also the Taliban that currently rules Afghanistan and bitterly opposes the US, rose from the remnants of the Mujahideen. US foreign policy has more often than not been guided by short-term expediency than long-term principles, and that might explain how the best of India’s diplomatic efforts and evidence do little to sway the State Department. As Trump woos Munir, who was appointed Field Marshal after Operation Sindoor, what we need to remember is that under the Republicans in general and the current White House incumbent in particular, the US is less a guardian angel of democracy or civilised diplomacy and more a power that looks after its strategic interests and trading might. It is generously helped by an influential Jewish lobby that has suddenly shifted America’s focus away from trade talks with China towards a combative engagement involving Israel and Iran. India’s Operation Sindoor had nothing to do with Iran, which has emerged as some kind of a benign opportunity for Pakistan to engage with the US. After the din ebbs on the Israel-Iran conflict, China will remain exactly where it is on the world map, helping Islamabad play a geopolitical card vis-à-vis the US. It is time for a reminder that for all practical purposes, Munir is now in control of the elected civilian government. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, like that of the Kargil War in 1999, gives the army an upper hand. Not that it needed any. Opposition leader and former prime minister Imran Khan has been in jail for two years after an arrest led by the paramilitary inside the premises of the Islamabad High Court in a case involving his confrontation with the country’s army. Barely a week after the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that led to Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan government named Asim Malik, a serving military general, as its National Security Adviser. A former head of the spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), he is no ordinary general. His appointment to the NSA’s job, over the head of civilian officials, shows who is in command in Pakistan. It might be fair to describe some of the events and non-events following Operation Sindoor as a setback for Indian diplomacy but it pays to remember that not all of it can be linked to what New Delhi does or does not do. The sheer location of Pakistan and the way Islamabad’s military lords use it, involves a grim lesson on the importance of location. The “geo” tag in geopolitics exists for a reason.

It is time for a reminder that for all practical purposes, Munir is now in control of the elected civilian government. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, like that of the Kargil War in 1999, gives the army an upper hand. Not that it needed any.

The Location Syndrome: As Trump woos Munir, Pakistan’s diplomatic geography matters more than its political history

In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan’s military establishment clung to a carefully curated narrative of deterrence success. From naval press briefings to televised strategic maps, the story painted was one of maritime vigilance, submarine tracking, and strategic restraint that supposedly “deterred” India’s aggression. But behind this narrative lies a bleak and inconvenient truth: Pakistan’s maritime posture is a theatrical display sustained by external bailouts and internal decay.&nbsp;The economic realities are devastating. Pakistan's currency has depreciated by over 35% in the last year. Inflation remains out of control, foreign exchange reserves are critically low, and industrial production has stagnated. Widespread energy shortages disrupt not only civilian life but also critical military operations. Amid this disarray, Pakistan continues expensive naval deployments primarily for optics, backed by concessional loans and foreign assistance, largely from China.&nbsp;In contrast, India’s defence spending is underwritten by sustained economic growth and indigenous capability. The Indian Navy’s modernisation is built on sovereign resources. India’s blue-water capability is credible because it is structurally sound. Pakistan’s, by contrast, is a strategic theatre grand on paper, fragile in reality.&nbsp;Precision Over Provocation&nbsp;Operation Sindoor marked a new chapter in India’s strategic doctrine. It was not a knee-jerk reaction but a calibrated, multi-domain response that blended precision with restraint. The Indian Navy was forward-deployed and combat-ready throughout the episode. As Vice Admiral A.N. Pramod confirmed, India had the full capacity to strike land and sea targets, including Karachi, but deliberately chose restraint.&nbsp;This signalled a significant evolution from earlier kinetic responses like Balakot or the surgical strikes post-Uri. Op Sindoor employed symbolic targeting, airpower superiority, and real-time intelligence to neutralise threats without breaching thresholds of escalation. Rafale jets, SCALP cruise missiles, and S-400 air defence systems were showcased not to provoke, but to affirm capability. Pakistan’s response, labelled “Operation Bunyan Marsoos” attempted aerial interception but failed to cause material damage. It merely reinforced the asymmetry in capability and intent.&nbsp;Mirage of Maritime Might and Dependency on Doles&nbsp;Pakistan’s naval narrative depends heavily on imagery of submarine acquisitions, fleet parades, and participation in multinational exercises like AMAN. But beneath the surface lies a fleet overwhelmingly dependent on Chinese hardware, concessional financing, and limited domestic integration. Modern platforms like the Type 054A frigates or the Hangor-class submarines offer symbolic parity but little operational autonomy. Maintenance challenges, interoperability issues, and a lack of doctrinal clarity hamper effectiveness. There is little meaningful technology transfer or domestic shipbuilding capability.&nbsp;India, in contrast, has invested in indigenous platforms (Scorpene, Kamorta, Vikrant), strategic interoperability through Quad and Indian Ocean Rim collaborations, and blue-water deployment reach. Humanitarian operations such as Samudra Setu and SAGAR further enhance its credibility as a maritime security provider.Strategic Hypocrisy of the Global Order&nbsp;Pakistan’s ability to project power beyond its means is not self-derived; it is underwritten by decades of indulgence from Western powers. From Cold War alignments to post-9/11 security arrangements, Islamabad has consistently positioned itself as a ‘strategic pivot.’ Even today, institutions like the IMF and World Bank continue to release tranches of financial support despite little accountability in public expenditure, especially on defence. The contradiction is striking: a state that diverts funds from healthcare and education to buy frigates continues to get lenient global treatment.&nbsp;India, by contrast, despite being a functioning democracy and growing economy, often faces tighter global scrutiny for legitimate defence actions. This double standard reflects a deeper problem, one of selective morality in international politics.&nbsp;Deconstructing the Parity Illusion&nbsp;Operation Sindoor decisively shattered the myth of parity. Pakistan’s narrative relied on ambiguous submarine tracks, vague maps, and televised press statements. India relied on operational readiness, global diplomatic outreach, and silent deterrence.&nbsp;The Indian Navy did not need to cross thresholds to establish dominance. The mere posture of forward deployment, paired with calibrated air and land operations, was sufficient to assert deterrence. The world noticed. Thirteen UNSC members were briefed ahead of time. Key global partners supported India's right to self-defence. Pakistan’s counter-narratives, in contrast, found little traction.&nbsp;The symbolic naming of the operation “Sindoor” evoked a deeply Indian sentiment of justice and loss, especially for women. It was a subtle reminder that India’s military&nbsp;actions were not just strategic but moral. However, this framing also highlights the intersection between strategic necessity and emotional narratives in South Asia’s contested landscape.&nbsp;Strategic Integrity vs Symbolic Projection&nbsp;The fundamental difference in maritime posture is this: India’s Navy projects strength with responsibility. Pakistan’s Navy projects imagery with fragility.&nbsp;India’s doctrine centres on securing sea lanes, humanitarian outreach, and cooperative regional presence. Pakistan’s naval imagination remains confined to achieving symbolic parity with India, even as its economy buckles and infrastructure collapses. India has showcased how restraint, deterrence, and readiness can coexist. Pakistan continues to rely on grandstanding, maps, and borrowed ships. The contrast is not just strategic, it is civilizational.&nbsp;The world must recognise this dichotomy. Strategic illusions from failing states must no longer be indulged. Accountability, not appeasement, is the true currency of international credibility.&nbsp;A Call for Strategic Realism&nbsp;Operation Sindoor was more than a military episode; it was a doctrinal message. India does not seek escalation, but it will not hesitate to act with precision and credibility. Op Sindoor exposed the fragility of Pakistan’s force projection and the limits of its maritime bluff. It also reaffirmed India’s ability to defend its sovereignty without theatrics. India leads with capability. Pakistan responds with choreography.&nbsp;The global order must take note. Strategic illusions are unsustainable. As India continues to grow into a responsible regional and global power, it will act with clarity, composure, and calibrated resolve. The time has come to see Pakistan’s grand naval posturing for what it is: a hollow projection sustained by borrowed power and fading legitimacy. &nbsp;

Shattered illusions: Operation Sindoor exposes Pakistan expensive force projection amidst a crumbling economy

In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan’s military establishment clung to a carefully curated narrative of deterrence success. From naval press briefings to televised strategic maps, the story painted was one of maritime vigilance, submarine tracking, and strategic restraint that supposedly “deterred” India’s aggression. But behind this narrative lies a bleak and inconvenient truth: Pakistan’s maritime posture is a theatrical display sustained by external bailouts and internal decay. The economic realities are devastating. Pakistan's currency has depreciated by over 35% in the last year. Inflation remains out of control, foreign exchange reserves are critically low, and industrial production has stagnated. Widespread energy shortages disrupt not only civilian life but also critical military operations. Amid this disarray, Pakistan continues expensive naval deployments primarily for optics, backed by concessional loans and foreign assistance, largely from China. In contrast, India’s defence spending is underwritten by sustained economic growth and indigenous capability. The Indian Navy’s modernisation is built on sovereign resources. India’s blue-water capability is credible because it is structurally sound. Pakistan’s, by contrast, is a strategic theatre grand on paper, fragile in reality. Precision Over Provocation Operation Sindoor marked a new chapter in India’s strategic doctrine. It was not a knee-jerk reaction but a calibrated, multi-domain response that blended precision with restraint. The Indian Navy was forward-deployed and combat-ready throughout the episode. As Vice Admiral A.N. Pramod confirmed, India had the full capacity to strike land and sea targets, including Karachi, but deliberately chose restraint. This signalled a significant evolution from earlier kinetic responses like Balakot or the surgical strikes post-Uri. Op Sindoor employed symbolic targeting, airpower superiority, and real-time intelligence to neutralise threats without breaching thresholds of escalation. Rafale jets, SCALP cruise missiles, and S-400 air defence systems were showcased not to provoke, but to affirm capability. Pakistan’s response, labelled “Operation Bunyan Marsoos” attempted aerial interception but failed to cause material damage. It merely reinforced the asymmetry in capability and intent. Mirage of Maritime Might and Dependency on Doles Pakistan’s naval narrative depends heavily on imagery of submarine acquisitions, fleet parades, and participation in multinational exercises like AMAN. But beneath the surface lies a fleet overwhelmingly dependent on Chinese hardware, concessional financing, and limited domestic integration. Modern platforms like the Type 054A frigates or the Hangor-class submarines offer symbolic parity but little operational autonomy. Maintenance challenges, interoperability issues, and a lack of doctrinal clarity hamper effectiveness. There is little meaningful technology transfer or domestic shipbuilding capability. India, in contrast, has invested in indigenous platforms (Scorpene, Kamorta, Vikrant), strategic interoperability through Quad and Indian Ocean Rim collaborations, and blue-water deployment reach. Humanitarian operations such as Samudra Setu and SAGAR further enhance its credibility as a maritime security provider. Strategic Hypocrisy of the Global Order Pakistan’s ability to project power beyond its means is not self-derived; it is underwritten by decades of indulgence from Western powers. From Cold War alignments to post-9/11 security arrangements, Islamabad has consistently positioned itself as a ‘strategic pivot.’ Even today, institutions like the IMF and World Bank continue to release tranches of financial support despite little accountability in public expenditure, especially on defence. The contradiction is striking: a state that diverts funds from healthcare and education to buy frigates continues to get lenient global treatment. India, by contrast, despite being a functioning democracy and growing economy, often faces tighter global scrutiny for legitimate defence actions. This double standard reflects a deeper problem, one of selective morality in international politics. Deconstructing the Parity Illusion Operation Sindoor decisively shattered the myth of parity. Pakistan’s narrative relied on ambiguous submarine tracks, vague maps, and televised press statements. India relied on operational readiness, global diplomatic outreach, and silent deterrence. The Indian Navy did not need to cross thresholds to establish dominance. The mere posture of forward deployment, paired with calibrated air and land operations, was sufficient to assert deterrence. The world noticed. Thirteen UNSC members were briefed ahead of time. Key global partners supported India's right to self-defence. Pakistan’s counter-narratives, in contrast, found little traction. The symbolic naming of the operation “Sindoor” evoked a deeply Indian sentiment of justice and loss, especially for women. It was a subtle reminder that India’s military actions were not just strategic but moral. However, this framing also highlights the intersection between strategic necessity and emotional narratives in South Asia’s contested landscape. Strategic Integrity vs Symbolic Projection The fundamental difference in maritime posture is this: India’s Navy projects strength with responsibility. Pakistan’s Navy projects imagery with fragility. India’s doctrine centres on securing sea lanes, humanitarian outreach, and cooperative regional presence. Pakistan’s naval imagination remains confined to achieving symbolic parity with India, even as its economy buckles and infrastructure collapses. India has showcased how restraint, deterrence, and readiness can coexist. Pakistan continues to rely on grandstanding, maps, and borrowed ships. The contrast is not just strategic, it is civilizational. The world must recognise this dichotomy. Strategic illusions from failing states must no longer be indulged. Accountability, not appeasement, is the true currency of international credibility. A Call for Strategic Realism Operation Sindoor was more than a military episode; it was a doctrinal message. India does not seek escalation, but it will not hesitate to act with precision and credibility. Op Sindoor exposed the fragility of Pakistan’s force projection and the limits of its maritime bluff. It also reaffirmed India’s ability to defend its sovereignty without theatrics. India leads with capability. Pakistan responds with choreography. The global order must take note. Strategic illusions are unsustainable. As India continues to grow into a responsible regional and global power, it will act with clarity, composure, and calibrated resolve. The time has come to see Pakistan’s grand naval posturing for what it is: a hollow projection sustained by borrowed power and fading legitimacy.

In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan’s military establishment clung to a carefully curated narrative of deterrence success.&nbsp;

Shattered illusions: Operation Sindoor exposes Pakistan's expensive force projection amidst a crumbling economy

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, in a telephonic exchange, the latter was briefed on Operation Sindoor. They were scheduled to meet on the sidelines of G7, as Trump returned to US early, the leaders resorted to a phone call that lasted for approximately 35 minutes.&nbsp;This call also took place after Trump called PM Modi to express his condolences after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, he had also assured support against terrorism in the wake of the dastardly attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent people in Kashmir.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-together-for-global-progress-pm-modi-meets-world-leaders-at-g7-in-canada-1750200993549">‘Together for global progress!’ PM Modi meets world leaders at G7 in Canada</a>&nbsp;In his statement, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, PM Modi clearly told President Trump that throughout this entire sequence of events, at no point were topics such as the India-US trade deal or US mediation between India and Pakistan discussed. The discussions regarding pausing military actions took place directly between India and Pakistan through existing military channels, on Pakistan’s request.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;PM Modi told President Trump clearly that during this entire series of incidents, never were talks held at any level on India-America trade deal and mediation between India and Pakistan by America,&quot; says Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri (Video: ANI/DD News) <a href="https://t.co/HhkYuhwWkR">pic.twitter.com/HhkYuhwWkR</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1935193994398695472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

PM Modi emphasised on the fact that India has never accepted mediation, does not accept it now, and will never accept it. &nbsp;And on this matter, there is complete political consensus in the country.&nbsp;President Trump heard through and understood the details provided by PM Modi and expressed support for India’s fight against terrorism. The prime minister was also clear that India no longer views terrorism as a proxy war but as an act of war, and Operation Sindoor is still ongoing.&nbsp;India's stand against terrorism has been clear and undeterred. Operation Sindoor is now a part of the country's fight against terrorism and is now a part of the national defence doctrine. President Trump asked PM Modi if he could stop by the United States on his way back from Canada, where he was attending the G7 Summit. Due to pre-scheduled commitments, the Indian prime minister expressed his inability to do so. Though both leaders then agreed to make efforts to meet in the near future.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, in a telephonic exchange, the latter was briefed on Operation Sindoor. 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, in a telephonic exchange, the latter was briefed on Operation Sindoor. They were scheduled to meet on the sidelines of G7, as Trump returned to US early, the leaders resorted to a phone call that lasted for approximately 35 minutes. This call also took place after Trump called PM Modi to express his condolences after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, he had also assured support against terrorism in the wake of the dastardly attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent people in Kashmir. Also read: ‘Together for global progress!’ PM Modi meets world leaders at G7 in Canada In his statement, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, PM Modi clearly told President Trump that throughout this entire sequence of events, at no point were topics such as the India-US trade deal or US mediation between India and Pakistan discussed. The discussions regarding pausing military actions took place directly between India and Pakistan through existing military channels, on Pakistan’s request.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, in a telephonic exchange, the latter was briefed on Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;

'India never accepted mediation': PM Modi and Trump's telephonic exchange lasts 35 minutes

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