The situation in Azad Kashmir, specifically around Rawalakot, has escalated dramatically following security forces' interventions against civilian protesters affiliated with the Joint Awami Action Committee. Recent reports and verified visual evidence confirm that aerial drones have been deployed to drop grenades directly onto civilian areas, resulting in casualties, including civilian fatalities and numerous injuries. Observers note that this military-style drone tactic mirrors urban combat techniques seen in international conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.
Political figures, including former Prime Minister Azad Kashmir Abdul Qayyum Niazi, Asad Qaiser, and Senator Mushtaq, have strongly condemned these operations, warning that deepening grievances and deploying kinetic force against peaceful protesters will only foster long-term resentment. Local communications remain heavily restricted, and civilian populations face severe intimidation designed to suppress public dissent and reporting.
