Context:

India and Pakistan have moved perilously close to full-scale war following a series of military confrontations, marked by both countries accusing each other of aggressive airstrikes on their respective military installations. The conflict, which began after a militant attack in Kashmir attributed to Pakistan by India, has rapidly escalated with the use of drones for the first time between the two nuclear-armed nations. Despite international calls for restraint, including from the G7 and other global powers, both countries have continued their military operations, with Pakistan naming its campaign 'Operation Bunyan al-Marsus'. Residents in the region have been living under blackouts and in fear, with many stocking up on essentials amidst the ongoing shelling and aerial threats. The situation remains tense with both sides showing no intention of de-escalation, while the use of new warfare technologies threatens to reshape the broader geopolitical landscape of the region.

Dive Deeper:

• The conflict between India and Pakistan escalated following accusations of Indian air-to-surface missile attacks on Pakistani military bases, prompting retaliatory strikes by Pakistan on Indian targets, including air bases and missile storage sites.

• This military escalation marks the most significant confrontation in decades between the two countries, which have a history of disputes over Kashmir and have fought three wars since their separation in 1947.

• Both nations have employed drones in the conflict, a first in their military engagements, leading to concerns about the potential reshaping of their hostilities similar to past changes seen when they became nuclear powers in the 1990s.

• International diplomatic efforts, including appeals from the G7 and countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have failed to ease tensions, with both countries largely ignoring calls for de-escalation.

• Amidst the conflict, civilians on both sides of the Kashmir border are experiencing severe hardships, including blackouts and shelling, with many expressing despair over the ongoing violence and lack of a foreseeable resolution.

• India has been accused of engaging in 'drone terrorism' by Pakistan, with reports of aerial intrusions and the testing of air defense systems, while India remains silent on these allegations.

• The ongoing military actions have led to disruptions in civilian life, including the suspension of major sporting events like the Indian Premier League and the Pakistan Super League due to safety concerns.