Operation Sindoor: India’s Strategic Misstep and Pakistan’s Diplomatic Triumph

Reading Time: 3 minutes In May 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor, a military campaign aimed at asserting dominance over Pakistan following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 civilian deaths. The operation, however, has not only failed to achieve its objectives but has also exposed significant flaws in India’s military capabilities and strategic planning. Meanwhile, Pakistan has adeptly leveraged India’s missteps to bolster its own diplomatic standing. Operational Failures and Credibility Erosion India’s Ministry of Defence described the operation as a demonstration of “national resolve, morality & political acumen,” intended to punish Pakistan for supporting cross-border terrorism . However, the reality on the ground painted a different picture. The operation resulted in limited military gains and significant collateral damage, including the destruction of civilian infrastructure in Muridke, Pakistan . These actions have drawn international criticism and have undermined India’s credibility as a responsible regional power. Dubious Claims and