International leaders have expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan following India`s airstrikes on Pakistani territory, known as "Operation Sindoor" on Wednesday.
The strikes targeted nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, reportedly in response to a deadly militant attack in Pahalgam that killed 27 people.
Here`s how global leaders have reacted to the rising tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors:
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio
“I am closely monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan. As President @POTUS stated earlier, we hope this escalation ends swiftly. I will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leaders to work toward a peaceful resolution.”
Spokesperson for U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres
“The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by India`s military actions across the Line of Control and the international border. He calls on both nations to exercise maximum restraint. A military conflict between India and Pakistan is something the world simply cannot afford.”
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi
“Japan strongly condemns the terrorist attack in Kashmir on April 22. We are also gravely concerned that the current situation could spiral into retaliatory violence and potentially a full-scale war. For the sake of South Asian peace and stability, we urge both India and Pakistan to show restraint and resolve differences through dialogue.”
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson
“China regrets India’s early morning military action and expresses concern over the unfolding situation. We urge both parties to remain calm, exercise restraint, and prioritize peace and stability in the region.”
Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar
“Israel stands by India`s right to self-defense. Those responsible for terrorist acts must know that there is no refuge from justice for their brutal crimes against innocent people.”
UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan
The United Arab Emirates` Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan called for both sides to show restraint and avoid escalation.
As tensions continue to rise, the international community remains watchful, urging both India and Pakistan to seek diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
