Foreign Secretary to Brief Parliamentary Panel on Pakistan Developments on May 19

13 May, 2025

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to brief the Parliament's Standing Committee on External Affairs on May 19 regarding the current situation with Pakistan. The committee, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, will be updated on recent developments, including India's strikes on terror sites in Pakistan and the subsequent interactions. This briefing underscores parliamentary engagement on critical foreign policy and national security matters.

Unpacked:

What triggered the recent escalation between India and Pakistan?

The escalation was triggered by a terror attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians, including a Nepali national. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, conducting coordinated strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu & Kashmir.

What was Operation Sindoor and what were its outcomes?

Operation Sindoor was a large-scale Indian military response involving air, land, and sea strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu & Kashmir. The operation targeted multiple sites, eliminated over 100 terrorists, and damaged 11 Pakistani air bases, while aiming to minimize civilian casualties.

What is the current status of hostilities between India and Pakistan following the strikes?

Following Operation Sindoor, both countries agreed to a ceasefire, but the situation at the Line of Control remains delicate with heightened tensions. Diplomatic and military channels continue to monitor developments closely.

Why is the Parliamentary Standing Committee being briefed, and what is its role?

The committee is being briefed to ensure parliamentary oversight and engagement on critical foreign policy and national security matters. Chaired by Shashi Tharoor, it receives updates from officials like Foreign Secretary Misri to stay informed and offer recommendations on India's external affairs.