Fight was against terrorists, pity Pakistan chose to intervene: IAF

'ALL OUR PILOTS ARE BACK HOME, ALL MILITARY BASES, SYSTEMS REMAIN FULLY OPERATIONAL'

- SIMONTINI BHATTACHARJEE

NEW DELHI: Top commanders of the Indian armed forces on Monday said that India's recent military strikes were directed solely at terrorist networks and their infrastructure, but criticised Pakistan's military for intervening in support of those elements. They affirmed that all Indian defence installations remain fully operational and that the forces are prepared for any further action if required.

Air Marshal AK Bharti, Director General of Air Operations, said India's objective remained limited to targeting terrorists and their support systems. "We have also iterated that our fight was with terrorists and their support infrastructure," he stated. "However, it is a pity that the Pakistan military chose to intervene and bat for the terrorists, which compelled us to respond in kind."

The remarks were made during a joint briefing on 'Operation Sindoor' alongside Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai, Director General of Military Operations, and Vice Admiral A N Pramod, Director General of Naval Operations.