India’s launch of “Operation Sindoor” has drawn widespread international reactions after strikes on alleged terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir triggered a sharp response from Islamabad, which called the attacks “an act of war.”
At least 26 people were reportedly killed in Pakistan and 10 in Indian-administered Kashmir in the overnight fighting.
China expressed regret over India’s military actions and urged both nations to prioritise peace. “China opposes all forms of terrorism,” the Foreign Ministry said, while calling for restraint and the avoidance of further escalation.
France acknowledged India’s right to self-defence but urged both countries to protect civilians and avoid escalation. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said, “We obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint.”
Iran described the situation as deeply concerning. The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, said Iran hoped both nations would de-escalate and show restraint.
Israel backed India’s position. Ambassador Reuven Azar posted on social media: “Israel supports India’s right for self-defence. Terrorists should know there’s no place to hide.”
Japan condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Kashmir and urged both countries to avoid further conflict. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said the situation must be stabilised through dialogue.
Qatar called for resolving the crisis through diplomatic means and emphasised the importance of keeping communication channels open.
Russia said it was “deeply concerned” about the situation and called for restraint from both sides, reaffirming its opposition to terrorism.
Turkey warned that India’s military actions could trigger “all-out war” and supported Pakistan’s demand for an investigation into the April 22 attack.
The United Arab Emirates called for calm and diplomacy. Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed reiterated that dialogue remains the best path to peace.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged “maximum military restraint” and warned that “the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.”
United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the UK is “urging India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward.”
United States President Donald Trump reacted briefly: “They’ve been fighting for many, many decades. I hope it ends very quickly.”
Senator Marco Rubio posted: “I am monitoring the situation… and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution.”
The global community remains on edge as both nuclear-armed neighbours trade military and political blows.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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