An IAI Harop drone, used by India, pictured in a promotional video
| Published May 9, 2025
Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar expressed support for New Delhi and its ‘right to self-defense’ – but did not mention Pakistan, which is supported by Turkey’s Erdogan. He noted that ‘the attack in Pahalgam is reminiscent of October 7th’ due to its brutality
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply following India’s deployment of Israeli-made Harop “suicide drones” against targets in Pakistan. The Harop, a loitering munition developed by Israel Aerospace Industries, is designed to hover over a target area and strike upon identifying a threat. India has previously acquired these drones as part of its defense procurement.
Pakistan’s military reported intercepting 25 of these drones over major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, claiming that some were neutralized using electronic countermeasures and physical force. Debris from the drones has been collected for analysis.
The drone strikes occurred amid heightened hostilities following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which India attributes to Pakistan-based militants. In response, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled regions.
The use of advanced drone technology in this conflict underscores a shift in modern warfare tactics in South Asia. The international community, including the United States, has expressed concern over the escalating situation and urged both nations to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration of regional stability.
The deployment of Israeli-made suicide drones by India against Pakistan has significant geopolitical, military, and diplomatic implications:
1. Escalation of India-Pakistan Tensions:
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The use of advanced drone warfare increases the risk of direct conflict between two nuclear-armed neighbors, potentially triggering a broader military confrontation.
2. Changing Nature of Warfare:
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The deployment of loitering munitions (suicide drones) demonstrates the growing role of unmanned aerial systems in modern combat, making conflicts more unpredictable and less reliant on traditional troop deployments.
3. Regional Arms Race:
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Both India and Pakistan may further accelerate their defense procurement, particularly in advanced drone and anti-drone technologies, increasing regional militarization.
4. Diplomatic Fallout:
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Pakistan may seek international support, accusing India of aggressive actions, while India may justify its use of drones as a counter-terrorism measure, complicating diplomatic efforts to maintain peace.
5. Israel’s Role in Global Arms Trade:
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Israel’s defense technology is in the spotlight, potentially facing criticism for enabling regional conflicts, while also cementing its reputation as a leader in drone technology.
6. Civilian Risk and Humanitarian Concerns:
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The use of suicide drones raises the risk of collateral damage in densely populated areas, leading to potential humanitarian crises and international condemnation.
Overall Takeaway
The use of Israeli-made suicide drones by India against Pakistan highlights the growing reliance on advanced drone warfare in regional conflicts, escalating tensions between two nuclear-armed nations. This development underscores the fragility of South Asian security, the evolving nature of modern warfare, and the potential for a dangerous regional arms race.
SOURCES: ZEROHEDGE – Israeli-Made Suicide Drones Launched By India Against Pakistan, Some Intercepted
YNET NEWS – Pakistan says intercepted Israeli-made ‘suicide drones’ fired by India
THE INDEPENDENT – What are the Israeli kamikaze drones India is accused of using against Pakistan?
THE TIMES OF ISRAEL- Pakistan military says it shot down 25 Israeli-made drones launched by India
BUSINESS INSIDER – India and Pakistan are fighting with a mixed bag of foreign-made fighter jets. The aircraft kills are being counted.
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