Pakistan Shuts Airspace Over Lahore, Islamabad After Indian Airstrikes Under ‘Operation Sindoor’

In a dramatic escalation following Indian airstrikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Pakistan has shut its airspace to all commercial flights at Lahore and Islamabad airports. The move, announced late Wednesday night, comes just hours after India launched “Operation Sindoor” in retaliation for a recent terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam.

The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) released a brief statement confirming the closure: “The country’s airspace is closed for all commercial flights at Lahore and Islamabad airports.” However, officials noted that Karachi airport remains fully operational.

The temporary closure is reportedly part of a broader security measure following Indian air raids that targeted nine locations suspected of harboring terrorists. These strikes were launched in response to the Pahalgam attack that claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists. Indian military sources said the operation was precise and aimed only at terror sites.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, flanked by senior military officials including Col. Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, addressed the media post-strikes. He revealed that a group called the Resistance Front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, had claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam bombing. “Pakistan links have been clearly established,” Misri asserted.

Despite mounting international pressure, Misri said, “Pakistan has made an identity in the world as a safe haven for terrorists,” criticizing the country’s inaction against terror groups operating on its soil.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Airport Authority has approached the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), raising concerns about the “serious risks” to civil aviation safety due to the Indian military action. The government is expected to reassess the airspace status after the initial 48-hour closure window.

As tensions remain high between the nuclear-armed neighbors, global aviation and diplomatic observers are closely watching developments. Travelers are advised to monitor airline updates and official notices for flight disruptions in the region.