In a significant and rare admission, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has publicly acknowledged that Indian ballistic missiles struck multiple Pakistani airbases, including the strategic Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi, during the early hours of May 10, 2025. This confirmation marks a departure from Pakistan’s usual stance of denying Indian military actions on its soil. The strikes were part of India’s Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory measure following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April.
Early Morning Alert and Strategic Targets
Addressing a special ‘Youm-e-Tashakur’ event at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recounted receiving a secure call from Army Chief General Asim Munir at approximately 2:30 AM on May 10. General Munir informed him that Indian ballistic missiles had targeted the Nur Khan Airbase and other locations. Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the confidence and patriotism in the General’s voice during the briefing.
The Nur Khan Airbase, formerly known as Chaklala Airbase, is a pivotal military facility situated near Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad. It serves as a central hub for the Pakistan Air Force’s operations, including housing critical assets like airborne early warning systems and transport aircraft. The base’s strategic importance made it a primary target during the Indian strikes.
In addition to Nur Khan, the Indian missiles targeted two other significant airbases: Murid Airbase in Chakwal and Rafiqui Airbase in the Jhang district of Punjab province. These bases are integral to Pakistan’s air defense and combat readiness, hosting various fighter squadrons and supporting operational capabilities.
Operation Sindoor and Its Implications
Operation Sindoor was launched by India in response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including a Nepali national. The operation aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and deter future cross-border attacks. Indian forces executed precision strikes on multiple Pakistani military installations, focusing on airbases that play crucial roles in Pakistan’s defense strategy.
Satellite imagery released by Maxar Technologies corroborated the extent of the damage inflicted during the operation. Images showed significant destruction at the targeted airbases, including Nur Khan, indicating the effectiveness of the strikes.
The public acknowledgment by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has elicited varied reactions. Indian political figures have highlighted the admission as evidence of the operation’s success and precision. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya remarked on the significance of the Prime Minister being informed of strikes deep within Pakistan, underscoring the operation’s boldness.
This development has heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, with the international community closely monitoring the situation. The acknowledgment of the strikes by Pakistan’s leadership may influence future diplomatic and military engagements in the region.
