This was not retaliation to continued Indian belligerence, FO on PAF's strikes

We have no intention of escalation, but are fully prepared to do so if forced, said FO.

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Foreign Office on Wednesday has confirmed that Pakistan Air Force undertook strikes across Line of Control from within Pakistani airspace. In a statement, the office stated, “This was not retaliation to continued Indian belligerence. Pakistan has therefore, taken strikes at non military target, avoiding human loss and collateral damage. Sole purpose being to demonstrate our right, will and capability for self defence.” “We have no intention of escalation, but are fully prepared to do so if forced into that paradigm. That is why we undertook the action with clear warning and in broad daylight,” it added. FO further stated, “For the last few years, India has been trying to establish what they call "a new normal" a thinly veiled term for doing acts of aggression at whatever pretext they wish on a given day. If India is striking at so called terrorist backers without a shred of evidence, we also retain reciprocal rights to retaliate against elements that enjoy Indian patronage while carrying out acts of terror in Pakistan.” “We do not wish to go to that route and wish that India gives peace a chance and to resolve issues like a mature democratic nation,” it added.  

Pakistan Air Force downs two Indian fighter jets

In a response to Indian Line of Control (LoC) violation, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has destroyed two Indian fighter jets earlier today.  the wreckage of one aircraft fell in Central Kashmir’s Budgam while the other’s in Pakistan territory. Two of the pilots have been killed in the incident.

The reaction came after Indian aircrafts intruded into Pakistan airspace and released payload in haste near Balakot. However, they scrambled back on PAF’s timely and effective response.

Following the violation, Pakistan decided to respond to India at its own choice of a time and a place.