On May 10, 2025, a significant escalation occurred in the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict when a Pakistani Fatah-II missile was intercepted over Sirsa, Haryana. This event is part of a broader series of military engagements between the two nations, following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 Hindu tourists.(Wikipedia, Indiatimes)
Incident Overview
In the early hours of May 10, Pakistani forces launched a Fatah-II guided artillery rocket aimed at Delhi. Indian air defense systems successfully intercepted the missile near the Sirsa Air Force Station in Haryana. Debris from the missile was recovered near a local church in Sirsa, causing alarm among residents who reported hearing a loud explosion .(Wikipedia, @EconomicTimes)
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Debris in Agricultural Fields: Photographs show remnants of the missile scattered across fields in villages like Firozabad and Khaja Khera, approximately 16 km from the Sirsa Air Force Station. The Indian Express+2The Tribune+2Hindustan Times+2
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Missile Fragments Recovered by Authorities: Images depict security personnel retrieving parts of the missile from the ground, highlighting the scale of the debris.
Strategic Context
The missile interception over Sirsa occurred amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Following the Pahalgam attack, India launched “Operation Sindoor” on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In retaliation, Pakistan initiated “Operation Bunyan al-Marsus,” which included missile and drone attacks on Indian military and civilian targets .(Indiatimes, Wikipedia)
Government Response
Indian authorities, including Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, held press briefings to address the situation. They refuted Pakistani claims of significant damage to Indian military installations, including the Sirsa Air Force Station, and provided evidence to support their statements .(Indiatimes, The Indian Express)
Civilian Impact
The interception of the missile over a populated area like Sirsa raised concerns about civilian safety. While no casualties were reported, the incident underscored the risks associated with military engagements in densely populated regions. Residents expressed fear and uncertainty following the explosion .(The Indian Express, @EconomicTimes)
International Reactions
The escalation prompted international concern, with diplomatic efforts underway to de-escalate the situation. The United States, among other nations, urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further conflict .(The New Indian Express)
For a visual report on the missile interception over Sirsa, you can watch the following news coverage: