Tensions between India and Pakistan have often captured headlines, but recent developments have prompted many to ask: did India declare war on Pakistan? This article reviews the latest events, statements, and regional reactions to help clarify the current status of the conflict.
In early May 2025, reports emerged of an Indian military operation called "Operation Sindoor." According to CNN’s live coverage, India conducted targeted strikes against supposed terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. These attacks resulted in significant casualties, with Pakistani sources claiming at least 31 civilian deaths and the Indian side reporting fatalities from cross-border shelling.
Despite the intense military exchanges, neither side has formally declared war. Indian officials have characterized their actions as targeted responses, not a declaration of full-scale war. Pakistan’s Prime Minister, however, strongly condemned the strikes and promised decisive retaliation. Updates from Al Jazeera's India-Pakistan live blog report that Pakistan’s National Security Committee authorized the military to undertake corresponding actions. This is a sign of escalating readiness but not an official declaration of war.
India’s External Affairs Minister stated, “It is not our intention to escalate this situation… if there are military attacks on us, there should be no doubt that it will be met with a very, very firm response.” These words, while strong, suggest the preference for limited engagement over outright war.
The situation along the Line of Control, the disputed border in Kashmir, has grown more volatile. Reports indicate an increase from small arms fire to heavy artillery exchanges. There have also been drone incursions, with the Pakistani side reporting the downing of multiple Indian drones across various cities, including Lahore and Karachi. This atmosphere keeps both nations on high alert, with local authorities in Pakistan declaring states of emergency in hospitals in anticipation of further incidents.
The escalating conflict has not gone unnoticed globally. Iran’s foreign minister urged restraint from both parties, emphasizing the need for regional stability and peace. Saudi Arabia has also positioned itself to mediate, signaling concern about a broader regional fallout. Despite these tensions, neither India nor Pakistan has made an explicit declaration of war, keeping diplomatic channels partly open.
At this point, the answer is no—India has not officially declared war on Pakistan. The recent strikes and military exchanges are serious and have resulted in tragic losses. However, diplomatic statements and the limited scope of military actions indicate that both sides are attempting to avoid a full-scale war—at least for now.
For real-time developments, follow these detailed updates from CNN on India-Pakistan operations and Al Jazeera’s live coverage.
While the question—did India declare war on Pakistan—reflects the gravity of the situation, current evidence points to heightened conflict, not an outright declaration of war. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether de-escalation or further military action will define Indo-Pakistan relations in 2025. Stay informed with trustworthy news sources and avoid misinformation during this tense period.