SRINAGAR — Tensions flared along the Line of Control in Kashmir as India and Pakistan exchanged gunfire and artillery overnight, following deadly missile strikes by India that marked the region’s worst cross-border violence in 20 years.

At least 43 people have been confirmed dead — 31 civilians in Pakistan and 12 in India — with both sides trading blame. The Indian army accused Pakistani forces of unprovoked attacks in several areas, while responding “proportionately.”

The violence follows India's missile strikes on alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan, retaliating for an earlier attack it claims Islamabad supported — a claim Pakistan denies. Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif vowed revenge, as international leaders, including the U.S. and Iran, urge de-escalation.