Following India’s surgical strikes under ‘Operation Sindoor’, the Pakistani military has launched a retaliatory offensive named ‘Operation Bunyan al-Marsus’. According to reports from Al Jazeera and Pakistan’s state-run media, the offensive began early Saturday morning, with explosions heard across several areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan claims the operation is a necessary response to India’s earlier attack on terror camps in Pakistani territory.
What Pakistan Claims Under ‘Operation Bunyan al-Marsus’
Citing Pakistan’s military and official news outlets like PTV and Dawn, the following attacks are reportedly carried out as part of this operation:
Cyberattacks on India’s power grid, affecting nearly 70% of its infrastructure.
Adampur’s S-400 air defense system allegedly destroyed by missiles launched from Pakistan’s JF-17 fighter jets.
An attack on an Indian military intelligence training center in Rajouri.
Targeting of the HQ of the ‘KG Top’ Brigade.
Airspace violations over Uri, Adampur, Udhampur, Pathankot, and Suratgarh.
Reported strike on the BrahMos missile storage unit in Beas.
However, India has not officially acknowledged or confirmed any of these claims.
What Does ‘Bunyan al-Marsus’ Mean?
The name ‘Bunyan al-Marsus’ comes from a verse in the Quran and roughly translates to “a structure made of molten lead” or “an impenetrable fortress.” The verse refers to those who fight in the path of God with unshakable unity and strength.
By naming their operation this way, Pakistan appears to be invoking religious symbolism to present the strike as a righteous and unified military effort.
India’s Reaction: Missile Defense in Action
While the Indian government has not issued a formal statement yet, ANI reports explosions at three Pakistani airbases on Saturday morning:
Nur Khan Airbase, Rawalpindi
Sukkur Airbase, Sindh
Murid Airbase, Chakwal
Pakistani officials claim India launched ballistic missiles targeting these bases. Meanwhile, in India’s Sirsa airspace, an incoming Pakistani missile was intercepted. Unconfirmed sources suggest that India also successfully neutralized a ‘Fateh-1’ missile aimed at Delhi.
Due to rising tensions, India’s Ministry of Defence has postponed a scheduled press briefing to 10:30 AM.
Flight Disruptions & Heightened Alert: Pakistan has suspended all air traffic across its skies. On the Indian side, heightened security protocols are in place across border regions in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.