Five Suspected Militants Killed in Kashmir Gunbattle

Government forces in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed five suspected militants on Thursday during a gunbattle in the Kulgam district, Arab News reported yesterday.

The Indian military reported that soldiers and police launched a joint operation after receiving intelligence about militants hiding in a village. Upon their arrival, the militants opened fire, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire.

The military confirmed the deaths of the five militants and reported that two soldiers sustained injuries during the operation. Troops continued to search the area for any remaining threats.

The conflict in Kashmir has persisted since 1989, with militants fighting against New Delhi’s rule. Both India and Pakistan administer parts of Kashmir but claim the territory in its entirety. India accuses Pakistan of sponsoring terrorism in the region, a claim that Islamabad denies. Many Kashmiris view the militants’ struggle as a legitimate fight for freedom, with tens of thousands of casualties reported among civilians, rebels, and government forces over the years.