IAF Denies Targeting Nuclear Site in Pakistan During Operation Sindoor
The Indian Air Force has officially clarified the scope of its actions during Operation Sindoor, emphasizing that while terror infrastructure and select military installations in Pakistan were targeted, the nuclear site at Kirana Hills was not struck. Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor made this statement on Wednesday, addressing circulating online videos that purportedly show attacks on the Kirana Hills area.
Official Statement on Operation Targets
Air Marshal Kapoor confirmed that the IAF's operations were strictly limited to identified terror and military targets. "We attacked terror infrastructure and several of their military installations. This is absolutely true," he stated. He further elaborated that the IAF cannot verify the authenticity of videos shared online, suggesting they might be fabricated or misrepresented by Pakistani sources.
"If you see any video, whether it's from open sources, or generated by them, or what they're trying to portray, we don't know. Whether we did something, or whether the explosion was caused by an insurgency there, or by what weapon, we don't know about all this," Kapoor added. He firmly asserted, "But these videos of Kirana Hills were presented by their people; they made them; we did nothing. We only struck terror and military installations."
Consistent IAF Position on Dismantling Threats
The IAF has consistently maintained that its actions during Operation Sindoor were aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure and degrading military capabilities linked to cross-border threats. This stance aligns with previous statements from senior officials. During a press briefing last year, Air Marshal AK Bharti, then Director General of Air Operations, had also denied any strikes on Kirana Hills.
In a related development, the IAF released a video on Republic Day showcasing the Pakistan’s nuclear base in Sargodha being hit, accompanied by footage of Indian jets such as Rafale, Sukhoi, Jaguar, and Tejas, with the caption "the enforcers of peace." However, when questioned about this video, the IAF reiterated its commitment to the official version, emphasizing that the focus remains on verified targets rather than speculative claims.
Background and Implications
Operation Sindoor represents a significant military action by India in response to cross-border threats, with the IAF playing a crucial role in precision strikes. The clarification from Air Marshal Kapoor underscores the strategic restraint exercised by India, avoiding escalation by not targeting nuclear facilities. This move is seen as part of broader efforts to maintain regional stability while addressing security concerns.
The denial of strikes on Kirana Hills highlights the importance of accurate information in the digital age, where misinformation can easily spread. The IAF's firm stance aims to counter false narratives and reinforce the credibility of its operations. As tensions in the region persist, such clarifications are vital for transparency and trust in military engagements.
