Global Reactions Pour In After India’s Strikes on Pakistan: Nations Urge Restraint and Dialogue
Tensions between India and Pakistan surged after India carried out targeted military strikes early Wednesday morning, hitting what it described as terror training camps within Pakistani territory. The action was in response to the terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam region on April 22, which killed 26 people, predominantly Hindu tourists.
India reported that its forces struck nine suspected militant camps spread across seven cities in Pakistan. The Indian government attributed the Kashmir attack to terrorist groups allegedly operating from Pakistani soil.
The strikes, followed by heavy cross-border shelling, have raised fears of a broader conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations. Pakistan responded by announcing its own military readiness and claimed it had downed several Indian fighter jets, while confirming civilian casualties on its side. India, too, reported deaths as a result of Pakistani shelling.
International Community Calls for De-escalation
World leaders responded swiftly to the unfolding crisis, urging both New Delhi and Islamabad to show restraint and avoid further military escalation.
The United States expressed deep concern over the situation, with its leadership labeling the incident as a troubling development. The U.S. emphasized the importance of restraint and continued diplomatic engagement to resolve tensions peacefully.
The United Kingdom echoed similar sentiments. British officials communicated with their counterparts in both countries, expressing their willingness to support peaceful initiatives aimed at restoring regional stability. The UK also updated its travel advisory, warning citizens against visiting areas close to the India-Pakistan border and specific regions within Pakistan.
China took a measured approach, expressing regret over the military escalation while condemning terrorism in all forms. Chinese officials urged both sides to prioritize peace, exercise caution, and avoid any steps that could exacerbate the situation.
The United Arab Emirates appealed for calm, calling for dialogue and mutual understanding as essential tools to defuse the crisis. UAE officials stressed that diplomacy remains the most effective path toward lasting peace in South Asia.
Japan voiced concern over the possibility of a full-scale military conflict. The Japanese government called on both nations to resolve their issues through dialogue and emphasized the importance of maintaining regional stability.
Russia, maintaining cordial relations with both India and Pakistan, called for restraint from both parties. Russian officials highlighted the need for diplomatic solutions to avoid further conflict.
Statements from Regional Leadership
While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not yet issued a formal statement, his scheduled overseas visit was reportedly postponed. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar took to social media, reaffirming India’s stance on zero tolerance for terrorism and labeling the operation as “Operation Sindoor.”
On the other side, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif condemned the strikes as an act of war and affirmed that Pakistan reserves the right to respond decisively. He stated that a “strong response” was already underway.
Heightened Alert and Diplomatic Maneuvers
Both nations have increased military readiness along the Line of Control, while diplomatic backchannels remain open. Global powers have intensified efforts to mediate and prevent the conflict from spiraling further.
The situation remains tense, with artillery exchanges ongoing and airspace restrictions impacting travel in the region. Civilians on both sides of the border have been urged to take precautionary measures.