PM Modi Declares New Era of Retaliation: “Rahim Yar Khan Airbase is in the ICU” Amidst Operation Sindoor Aftermath

Bikaner, Rajasthan — In his first major public address following the high-impact military campaign Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a fiery and emotionally charged speech in Bikaner on May 22, 2025. Addressing a massive gathering while inaugurating multiple development projects, the Prime Minister lauded the Indian Armed Forces’ heroism and issued stern warnings to Pakistan in response to recent acts of terrorism.

PM Modi’s speech was not just a celebration of military victory but a direct message to adversaries—India will no longer tolerate terrorism on its soil without decisive retribution. He vividly described the destruction inflicted on Pakistan’s key air base, Rahim Yar Khan, which he metaphorically stated is now “in the ICU.”

Here are the top highlights and themes from his powerful speech:

 

1. Operation Sindoor: A Testament to Indian Military Might

Modi began his speech with a reference to the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, likening the synergy of India’s Army, Navy, and Air Force to the legendary battle formation “Chakravyuh.” He stated that under his government’s full support, the three military branches executed a unified and devastating response to terrorist hideouts in Pakistan.

“In just 22 minutes, nine major terrorist hideouts were reduced to rubble,” Modi declared, applauding the precision and swiftness of the Indian response. “The world saw what happens when sindoor (vermilion) turns into gunpowder.”

2. “Rahim Yar Khan is in the ICU” — A Symbol of Strategic Dominance

Referring to one of Pakistan’s most significant airbases, Rahim Yar Khan, Modi declared it practically non-operational following the Indian strikes.

“Their Rahim Yar Khan base lies in ruins—it’s in the ICU. No one knows when or if it will ever function again,” he asserted.

The air base, which shares a runway with Sheikh Zayed International Airport, was among the primary targets neutralized by Indian forces during the operation. This strike was seen as a calculated move to cripple Pakistan’s retaliatory capacity.

 

3. No Talks Without PoK on the Table

Firmly closing the door on diplomacy for the moment, PM Modi reiterated that peace talks and trade with Pakistan are off the table unless discussions include Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

“There will be no trade, no dialogue—only discussions on retrieving PoK. Playing with India’s blood has consequences.”

4. Standing Tall Against Nuclear Threats

Addressing potential nuclear escalation, Modi delivered a clear message: India will not be intimidated.

“We will not differentiate between terrorists and the governments that harbor them. Nuclear threats will not deter us. Our forces will choose the time, place, and manner of response.”

His remarks outlined a new doctrine of deterrence that blurs the line between state and non-state actors in terrorist aggression.

5. A New Definition of Justice: Operation Sindoor

Calling the campaign a “new form of justice,” PM Modi distanced the operation from the notion of revenge, instead describing it as righteous punishment.

“This is not vengeance, but a new avatar of justice—this is Operation Sindoor. It’s not just strategy; it’s the ‘Raudra Roop’ of a powerful India,” he said.

He also referenced past military actions, stating, “Earlier we attacked inside their homes; now we strike directly on their chest.”

Operation Sindoor: Background

The speech comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, India’s targeted military response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. Launched on May 7, the operation involved high-precision drone and missile strikes on multiple Pakistani military installations and terror hubs.

Following initial Indian strikes, Pakistan attempted retaliatory attacks from May 8 to May 10, which were largely thwarted by India’s defense systems. Both nations agreed to a de-escalation on May 10 after four intense days of conflict.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s remarks signal a significant shift in India’s defense and foreign policy stance—moving from a restrained posture to one of active deterrence and aggressive defense. His address in Bikaner not only celebrated the success of Operation Sindoor but also laid out the foundation of a “New India”—unafraid, unrelenting, and unwavering in the face of terror.

With Operation Sindoor now etched in India’s modern military history, the world watches how this bold assertion of sovereignty reshapes the regional geopolitical narrative.