First Drone War Erupts Between India and Pakistan

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated to a new level with the outbreak of the first drone war between the nuclear-armed neighbors. On Thursday, India accused Pakistan of launching drone and missile strikes on three military bases in Indian-administered Kashmir and Indian territory, while Pakistan claimed to have downed 25 Indian drones. Experts warn that this development marks a dangerous phase in the longstanding rivalry, with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and loitering munitions becoming central to the conflict. Both nations have reportedly targeted air defense systems, underscoring the growing importance of drone warfare in modern military strategy.

The deadly conflict, which began earlier this week, has already claimed numerous civilian lives on both sides. Pakistan reported at least 36 deaths and 57 injuries from Indian airstrikes and artillery, while India said that 16 civilians had been killed by Pakistani shelling. As the two nations exchange drone and missile strikes, global powers have urged restraint, with concerns growing about the potential for further escalation in the volatile region.