In a significant escalation of tensions between two nuclear-armed neighbors, India carried out military strikes on Pakistan-administered Kashmir in the early hours of Wednesday. This move follows the recent attack on Indian tourists in the disputed Kashmir region last month, which claimed several lives. Pakistan has since confirmed that eight people were killed in the strikes and said it is now responding militarily.
The world has been quick to react to this sudden escalation, urging both nations to show restraint and return to the path of dialogue.
International Reactions:
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed disappointment over the renewed hostilities. “It’s a shame. I just heard about it. People kind of expected something might happen. They’ve been fighting for many decades. I just hope it ends quickly,” he said.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reinforced this message, tweeting that he is monitoring the situation closely and supporting President Trump’s call for a quick resolution. He also emphasized continued diplomatic engagement with both countries.
The United Nations, through a spokesperson for Secretary-General António Guterres, voiced deep concern over India’s military operations across the Line of Control. “The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan,” the spokesperson warned, calling for maximum military restraint from both sides.
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi condemned the April 22 attack on Indian tourists as an act of terrorism but warned against further retaliation. “We urge both nations to seek peace through dialogue to avoid full-scale conflict,” he said.
China’s Foreign Ministry described India’s military action as “regrettable,” urging both nations to remain calm and act in the interest of regional peace.
Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, stood firmly by New Delhi. “Israel supports India’s right to self-defense. Terrorists must know there’s no hiding place for their crimes,” he stated.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry also expressed alarm over the military escalation, urging restraint and cautioning against actions that could worsen tensions in the region.
France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for calm, stating that “prolonged confrontation between two major military powers benefits no one.”
The United Arab Emirates, through Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, echoed similar sentiments, urging both India and Pakistan to de-escalate and prioritize peace over provocation.
With global leaders weighing in and the region on edge, all eyes are now on South Asia. Will cooler heads prevail, or are we witnessing the beginning of a deeper crisis?
