Officials said at least 26 people have been killed and 46 wounded after India fired missiles across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory in at least six locations.
India said it struck infrastructure used by militants linked to last month’s massacre of tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.
Tensions have soared between the nuclear-armed neighbours since the attack, which India has blamed Pakistan for backing. Islamabad has denied the accusation.
TheFCDO added: “According to media reports on 6 May, the Indian Government announced a Civil Defence mock drill on 7 May in several states across India. The drill may include temporary power cuts or blackouts, loud air raid sirens, suspension of mobile signals, or traffic diversions. Authorities may also conduct evacuation exercises or hold public announcements.”
Pakistani officials said the strikes hit at least two sites previously tied to banned militant groups.
One hit the Subhan Mosque in the city of Bahawalpur in Punjab, killing 13 people, including a child, according to Zohaib Ahmed, a doctor at a nearby hospital.
At least seven civilians were also killed in Indian-controlled Kashmir by Pakistani shelling, the Indian army said in a statement
Deeply concerning to see military air strikes in Jammu Kashmir tonight by the Indian Government – the world cannot stand by as this conflict escalates and so too the risk of harm to innocent civilians in the region. Restraint by all concerned must be sought and secured.
