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ISLAMABAD, May 10 — Pakistan has closed its airspace to all commercial and military traffic following confirmed Indian missile strikes on three key Pakistani airbases. The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) made the announcement early Thursday, stating the closure will remain in effect until at least noon as security assessments continue.
The move follows a dangerous escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. In the early hours of the morning, India launched air-to-surface missiles targeting PAF bases in Noor Khan, Mureed, and Shorkot. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistan’s armed forces intercepted most of the incoming missiles and confirmed that all Pakistan Air Force (PAF) assets remain secure and fully operational.
In swift retaliation, Pakistan launched a counteroffensive under Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, targeting multiple Indian military installations. Security sources confirmed that Pakistan struck and disabled the Udhampur Airbase and rendered the Pathankot Airfield non-operational. In addition, a BrahMos missile storage facility in the Beas area — reportedly used in the earlier attack — was destroyed.
“Pakistan’s response is precise, proportionate, and targeted strictly at military assets that were used to attack civilians and religious sites within Pakistan,” said a senior military spokesperson. “Our aim is deterrence, not escalation — but any act of aggression will be met with resolute force.”
As part of the operation, all known launch points used in the Indian offensive are being actively targeted. Officials confirmed that multiple strategic sites are engaged simultaneously.
The Pakistan Airports Authority is expected to issue an update on the airspace status closer to the scheduled reopening time. Airlines have been advised to reroute flights, and passengers are urged to contact carriers for updates.
