Pakistan's declaration of war? PM Shehbaz Sharif says Pak armed forces authorised respond to 'Operation Sindoor'

Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif condemned the military action by India on “imaginary terrorist camps” and vowed to respond, in self-defence, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing.

A statement from PMO in Islamabad said the National Security Committee (NSC), convened under the chairmanship of the PM, extended its heartfelt condolences to the family members of people killed in 'Operation Sindoor' by Indian security agencies against the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan.

Pakistan dubbed the operation unprovoked, cowardly and unlawful act of war," and claimed that India's actions constituted acts of war under international laws.

Confirming India's action, the PM's office said the Indian armed forces launched coordinated missile, air and drone strikes on multiple locations within Pakistan, including Sialkot, Shakargarh, Muridke and Bahawalpur in Punjab, Kotli and Muzaffarabad.

Pakistan claimed that the strikes caused damage to the civilian infrastructure, including mosques, and led to loss of civilian lives.

According to Pakistan, India’s "act of aggression" caused "grave danger to commercial airlines belonging to brotherly gulf countries, endangering the lives of thousands of on-board passengers."

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Further, Pakistan said India refused to accept the offer for a "credible, transparent and neutral investigation" into the Pahalgam terror attack which left 26 people dead.

Pakistan said India undertook the operation against terror hideouts in Pakistan "to satiate its delusional thoughts and short-sighted political objectives."

"In consonance with Article-51 of the UN Charter, Pakistan reserves the right to respond, in self-defence, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing to avenge the loss of innocent Pakistani lives and blatant violation of its sovereignty. The Armed Forces of Pakistan have duly been authorised to undertake corresponding actions in this regard," the statement from Pakistan PMO said.

NSC urged the international community to recognise the gravity of India’s actions and to hold it accountable for its "violations of international norms and laws."

"Pakistan remains committed to peace, with dignity and honour, and reiterates that it shall never allow any violation of its sovereignty, territorial integrity or permit any harm to its proud people," the statement further said.

Defence