India, Pakistan Trade Strikes; Civilian Deaths Reported

India launched missile strikes on nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, targeting what it described as militant infrastructure after a deadly attack on Indian tourists in Kashmir. The strikes reportedly caused at least 26 civilian deaths in Pakistan, and subsequent cross-border artillery and air attacks led to additional casualties on both sides. Pakistan condemned the strikes as an act of war and conducted retaliatory strikes on Indian targets, further escalating tensions. Both Indian and Pakistani leaders held emergency security meetings, while international actors such as China, Bangladesh, and the United Kingdom called for restraint and issued travel warnings. The situation has raised fears of a broader conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors. Despite Indian statements that the strikes were measured, the region remains highly volatile.