India confirmed it carried out strikes in Pakistan early Wednesday in retaliation for last month’s deadly attack on Hindu tourists in Kashmir. Pakistan, in turn, reported eight casualties and said it had launched a response to the Indian assault.
The escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbours has drawn international concern. Here are reactions from global leaders and officials:
US President Donald Trump
“It’s a shame. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They’ve been fighting for a long time. They’ve been fighting for many, many decades. I hope it ends very quickly.”
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
“I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo @POTUS’s comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution.”
Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres
“The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.”
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi
“In regard to the terrorist act that occurred in Kashmir on April 22, our country firmly condemns such acts of terrorism. Furthermore, we express strong concern that this situation may lead to further retaliatory exchanges and escalate into a full-scale military conflict. For the peace and stability of South Asia, we strongly urge both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilize the situation through dialogue.”
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson
“China finds India’s military operation early this morning regrettable. We are concerned about the ongoing situation. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation.”
Israel’s Ambassador to India Reuven Azar
“Israel supports India’s right for self-defence. Terrorists should know there’s no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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