Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Slams India’s Strikes, Urges Dialogue After Operation Sindoor

In the aftermath of India’s precision military strikes under “Operation Sindoor,” Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has condemned the action as an act of war while signaling a renewed willingness to engage in diplomatic talks. The strikes, which targeted terror launch pads across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and deep into Pakistani territory, were launched following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April, which claimed 26 lives, including civilians and tourists.

Sharif, speaking at a high-level press briefing in Islamabad, declared that Pakistan reserves the right to respond in kind and protect its sovereignty. He accused India of reckless aggression and violating international norms but simultaneously called for “restraint, peace, and responsibility” from both sides to prevent further escalation in the volatile region.

India has maintained that its strikes were precise, non-escalatory, and aimed only at dismantling cross-border terrorist infrastructure operated by groups like the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The Indian government said the operation was a necessary response to the rising tide of terrorism from across the border and was conducted with careful targeting to avoid civilian casualties.

Pakistan, however, reported damage to civilian areas and military installations, including the Nur Khan airbase. As tensions escalated, fears of a larger conflict loomed, especially with reports that Pakistan had only seconds to assess whether India’s BrahMos missiles carried nuclear warheads.

In a surprising shift following initial threats of retaliation, Prime Minister Sharif later stated that Pakistan is open to talks with India on key issues, including Kashmir, terrorism, and water-sharing disputes. The move suggests Islamabad may be aiming to reduce tensions and seek a diplomatic path forward in light of increasing international concern over a potential full-scale conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.