Diplomatic Delay: Modi Skips Europe, Focuses on Home Front

Image Source: The Economic Times

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stalled his scheduled trips to Croatia, the Netherlands, and Norway after that country launched large-scale military airstrikes against terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-held Kashmir, known as "Operation Sindoor." The action follows a boost in regional tensions and severe disruptions to flight schedules over northern India.

In a rapid reaction to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, India carried out coordinated military attacks on terror facilities in Pakistan and PoK. As tensions mount, PM Modi has cancelled his planned diplomatic visit to concentrate on national security and crisis management.

Operation Sindoor: The Strikes

India's Army, Navy, and Air Force conducted coordinated attacks on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, including bases associated with Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
The operation was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists.
Rafale jets and precision-guided munitions were used in the strikes.

Diplomatic Fallout

PM Modi’s mid-May visits to Croatia, Norway, and the Netherlands have been postponed, with sources citing the evolving security situation.
The cancellation signals a shift in diplomatic priorities as the government focuses on managing the aftermath of the strikes.

Political and Public Reactions

The Congress party officially supported the government's action, urging national unity against terrorism.
Leaders of religion and communities have also come out in support of the operation, perceiving it as a bold action against terrorism.

Impact on Air Travel and Daily Life

Large airports in northern India, such as Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, and Chandigarh, have been shut down until further notice. Hundreds of flights have been cancelled or routed elsewhere.
Air carriers like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have posted advisories and made refund and rescheduling easy for passengers.
International flights are diverting routes to circumvent Indian and Pakistani airspace.

Government and Security Updates

State governments and security forces are in high alert mode, with emergency meetings and preparations for any escalation.
Critical services and provisions are normal, and authorities have appealed to people to remain calm and not indulge in panic.

Sources: News18, Financial Express, India Today, Indian Express, Financial Express