India sets six strategic targets after Pahalgam attack; Pakistan on alert

Following the recent attack on tourists in Pahalgam, India has identified six major strategic targets to respond firmly. The Indian Army is already on high alert, quietly conducting military drills, while efforts to expel Pakistani nationals across India, including Kashmir, have intensified.

Also read: Shehbaz Sharif’s first reaction after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack

The six targets identified are:

1. Terrorist Camps: Intelligence reports reveal 42 terrorist camps near the Line of Control (LoC) on Pakistani soil. India's primary focus is to eliminate these camps.
2. Targeted Killings: Inspired by Israel's operations against Hamas, India may carry out precision strikes against top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and The Resistance Force.
3. Missile Strikes: Strategic missile attacks are being considered. Prithvi, Agni, and BrahMos missiles could be deployed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure across the border.
4. Revising the No-First-Use Policy: Although India traditionally upholds a "no first use" nuclear policy, authorities are reportedly considering a shift, allowing pre-emptive strikes with conventional or even nuclear arms if necessary.
5. Maritime Blockade: Inspired by Houthi tactics in the Red Sea, the Indian Navy could block Pakistani maritime trade routes, applying economic and strategic pressure.
6. Military Operation: India could escalate operations to reclaim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), possibly leading to a controlled, limited conflict despite both nations being nuclear-armed.

While only initial actions have been seen, sources suggest the real response is yet to unfold.