Rewind 2025: Major National and International Operations in this Year

In 2025, several national and international operations were launched across the world to address terrorism, border security, humanitarian crises, evacuations, disaster relief, and regional conflicts. India and major global powers undertook these operations to protect civilians, ensure national security, respond to natural disasters, and counter terrorism. These operations reflect evolving security challenges and international cooperation.

Operations in 2025

I. India-Centric Operations (National & Humanitarian)

1. Operation Sindoor

India launched Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. Precision strikes targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The operation aimed to restore deterrence while avoiding escalation by not targeting Pakistani military installations.

2. Operation SHIVA 2025

This operation was launched to ensure the safe conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir. Over 8,500 troops were deployed with advanced surveillance systems, counter-drone grids, medical facilities, and disaster response teams. It reflects India’s focus on pilgrimage security amid rising terror threats.

3. Operation Abhyas

Operation Abhyas was a nationwide civil defence mock drill conducted under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Held in cities like Bengaluru, it focused on emergency preparedness, rescue operations, fire safety, evacuations, and public awareness following heightened security alerts after terror incidents.

4. Operation Sard Hawa

Launched by the Border Security Force (BSF) ahead of Republic Day, this operation aimed to prevent infiltration along the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan during dense winter fog. Advanced surveillance tools, camel patrols, drones, and increased manpower were deployed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance.

5. Operation Sindhu

Operation Sindhu was launched to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran amid rising Iran-Israel conflict. Indian embassies coordinated road and air evacuation routes via Armenia. The operation demonstrated India’s diplomatic agility and commitment to citizen safety abroad.

6. Operation Brahma

India launched Operation Brahma to provide humanitarian aid to Myanmar after a devastating earthquake. Relief included airlifted supplies, naval support, search-and-rescue teams, and a field hospital. The mission highlighted India’s role as a regional first responder under its Neighbourhood First policy.

7. Operation Hawk 2025

Led by the CBI, Operation Hawk 2025 targeted international cybercrime networks involved in online child sexual exploitation. Conducted with U.S. cooperation, it dismantled digital abuse networks using platforms like Discord, reinforcing India’s role in global cybercrime prevention.

II. International / Global Operations

1. Operation Hawkeye Strike (US–Jordan)

This joint military operation targeted ISIS positions in Syria following an attack that killed two U.S. soldiers. Over 70 ISIS targets were hit using precision airstrikes. The mission aimed to weaken ISIS infrastructure and reaffirm the U.S. policy of deterrence through strength.

2. Operation Midnight Hammer (United States)

The U.S. conducted Operation Midnight Hammer to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Using stealth bombers and cruise missiles, the operation aimed to degrade Iran’s nuclear capabilities without triggering immediate escalation.

3. Operation True Promise 3 (Iran)

Iran launched this missile campaign against Israeli cities in retaliation for Israeli strikes on its nuclear and military infrastructure. The operation introduced advanced tactics like decoy saturation and AI-assisted missile trajectories, challenging modern missile defence systems.

4. Operation Rising Lion (Israel)

Israel’s Operation Rising Lion targeted Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, including the Natanz enrichment facility. Israel declared the operation necessary for national survival, while the U.S. distanced itself, marking a major geopolitical development in the Middle East.

5. Operation Devil Hunt (Bangladesh)

Bangladesh launched Operation Devil Hunt to crack down on loyalists of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina following violent attacks on student protesters. The operation was initiated by the interim government to restore law, order, and democratic stability amid political unrest.

6. Operation Sagar Bandhu (India–Sri Lanka)

India launched this humanitarian mission after Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka. Naval ships delivered relief supplies, food, and medical aid. The operation reaffirmed India’s regional solidarity and commitment to humanitarian assistance in the Indian Ocean region.