After days of denial, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif himself has admitted that Indian missiles launched as part of 'Operation Sindoor' did strike Nur Khan air base in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, during the early hours on May 10. Sharif made the admission while he was addressing Pakistani troops as part of 'Youm-e-Tashakur' celebrations on Friday.
Pakistan observed 'Youm-e-Tashakur' (Day of Thanks) to pay homage to the military on Friday. Addressing troops at the Pakistan monument in Islamabad on Saturday, Sharif said, "On the intervening night of May 9-10, around 2.30 am, Army chief Asim Munir called me over a secure line, informing me that Hindustani ballistic missiles had hit Nur Khan airbase and other areas. I can tell you that by swearing on God that there was confidence, self-confidence and patriotism in the General's voice," Hindustan Times reported.
Notedly, after days of heightened military operations in the aftermath of 'Operation Sindoor', India and Pakistan agreed to stop firing on May 10. The ceasefire agreement was recently extended.
Pakistan prime minister's admission comes after Pakistan military's strong denial of suffering any damage in India's 'Operation Sindoor', launched on May 7. Though Pakistan said its military assets, including Nur Khan air base, were targeted by India, it denied suffering any significant damage. However, Pakistan claimed it inflicted severe damage on Indian military assets.
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In a press briefing later, Indian defence officials said, "India became the first country to strike 11 airbases of a nuclear-armed nation in a single operation, destroying 20 per cent of Pakistan’s air force assets. High casualties were inflicted at Bhoolari Airbase, including the death of Squadron Leader Usman Yusuf and destruction of key fighter jets."
India launched 'Operation Sindoor' on May 7 to avenge the deaths of 26 persons in the Pahalgam terror attack. India conducted precision strikes targeting terror bases in Pakistan. However, in retaliation, Pakistan launched strikes targeting Indian military assets across the International Border and Line of Control on May 8,9 and 10. After days of heightened military operations, India and Pakistan agreed to stop firing on May 10 and descalate the situation.