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On September 6, the Indian Army crossed into Pakistan’s Lahore sector, sparking fierce battles across Punjab, Rajasthan, and Kashmir during the 1965 war
The war lasted for 17 days and featured one of the largest tank battles since the Second World War. (Wikimedia Commons)
Tensions between India and Pakistan erupted into a full-scale conflict in 1965, marking the start of the Indo-Pakistani War. September 6, 1965, marked the first major confrontation since the 1947 partition, following years of smaller skirmishes, including Pakistan’s earlier attempts to capture Kashmir.
The war lasted for 17 days and featured one of the largest tank battles since the Second World War. The conflict was triggered by Pakistan’s Operation Gibraltar, a secret plan aimed at inciting rebellion in Jammu and Kashmir by sending thousands of soldiers disguised as local rebels. Pakistan hoped this would create instability and help them capture the region.
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India, in response, launched an attack on Lahore, taking Pakistan by surprise and reaching the outskirts of the city, which shook the Pakistani defence.
Understanding The Indo-Pakistani War Of 1965
The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 officially began on September 6, when the Pakistani army launched Operation Grand Slam, targeting Akhnoor in Jammu and Kashmir. The conflict followed rising tensions after Pakistan’s Operation Gibraltar in August, which sent armed infiltrators into Kashmir to incite rebellion against Indian rule. India responded decisively, and the situation quickly escalated into a full-scale war.
Army Moves Across Border
On September 6, the Indian Army crossed the international border into Pakistan’s Lahore sector, initiating fierce battles in various regions, including Punjab, Rajasthan, and Kashmir. Major confrontations occurred in Asal Uttar, Khemkaran, and Sialkot. Both countries deployed infantry, armoured units, and air forces, resulting in heavy damage and economic losses on both sides. Despite both nations claiming victory, Pakistan’s objective of capturing Kashmir remained unfulfilled, while India gained an edge in some strategic areas.
UN Steps In To Enforce Ceasefire
The conflict drew international attention, leading to a United Nations-enforced ceasefire on September 23, 1965. Diplomatic intervention by the United Nations and the mediation of the Soviet Union resulted in the signing of the Tashkent Agreement on January 10, 1966, between Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Pakistani President Ayub Khan. Under the agreement, both countries agreed to return each other’s occupied territories.
The war demonstrated India’s military strength and resilience, disproving Pakistan’s expectation of support from the Muslims of Kashmir. It highlighted that while India seeks peace, it is capable of responding effectively to threats to its security. The conflict not only marked a military victory but also restored confidence in India’s capability following the setback of the 1962 war.
September 08, 2025, 12:36 IST
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