Civilians in Kashmir Grapple with Violence After Missiles Strike Both Sides of the Line of Control

In the aftermath of missile strikes attributed to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, civilians in Kashmir describe the chaos and devastation experienced in both regions. The strikes resulted in multiple casualties, compelling residents to flee their homes amid fears of escalating violence.

In the early hours of Wednesday, a powerful blast jolted Mohammed Waheed from sleep in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. "Before we could even process what was happening, more missiles struck," he recalled, recounting the panic that ensued as families rushed outside for safety. As Indian military forces reported missile strikes in retaliation for a fatal militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, Pakistan attributed at least eight civilian deaths and numerous injuries to the strikes.

Witness accounts from both sides reveal the horrific aftermath, with a resident of India's Poonch district tragically sharing how Ruby Kaur was killed by a mortar shell while preparing tea for her unwell husband. Her uncle lamented the lack of protective structures, leaving residents vulnerable to the sudden onslaught.

Throughout the night, locals reported hearing continuous explosions and expressed sheer terror regarding their safety. Muhammad Younis Shah in Pakistan-administered Kashmir noted that missiles devastated an educational complex and mosque, raising questions among residents about the rationale behind targeting such sites. As the fear of further strikes looms, families are left scrambling to find safe shelter.

In response to the attacks, Indian officials claimed their military actions were focused and precise, aimed at dismantling militant structures, despite the widespread devastation reported by civilians. Multiple individuals from both sides voiced their confusion and distress, underscoring the urgent humanitarian concerns amid the escalating hostilities. confusion and shock at the state of their communities, calling for clarity on the motivations behind the assaults. As tensions remain high, residents on both sides fear the next escalation in this volatile landscape.