At least 26 people, including several children, have been killed and 46 injured after India launched attacks on what it claimed were nine sites of “terrorist infrastructure” inside Pakistan, in a sharp escalation of hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Pakistan declared the strikes to be an “act of war” and claimed it had shot down five Indian air force jets and a drone. “Pakistan gives a befitting reply to India,” said the Pakistan government in a statement.
India had accused Pakistan of involvement in an attack targeting Hindu tourists in Indian Kashmir last month that killed 26 people. “We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable,” said the Indian defence ministry.
A war between India and Pakistan could soon spill onto British streets
“India and Pakistan have clever generals, diplomats and politicians who will be able to call any conflict quits. On Britain’s streets, there are fewer restraints available. We had race riots involving Muslims and Hindus in Britain in recent years. They’re always in the offing, always ready to break out.”
