Several countries, including the United Kingdom, China, the United States, Turkey, Qatar, Russia, and France, have expressed concern and offered to mediate as tensions soar between nuclear-armed neighbours India and Pakistan following a deadly exchange of airstrikes and cross-border fire.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom said it is ready to play a role in de-escalating tensions. UK Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds told Parliament on Wednesday that Cabinet Minister David Lammy has contacted both Islamabad and New Delhi in an effort to reduce hostilities. Reynolds described the situation in Kashmir as “deeply concerning” and emphasised that the UK is a “friend and partner to both countries.”
China
China called the Indian airstrikes “regrettable,” while U.S. President Donald Trump termed them “shameful.” Both nations have urged restraint and dialogue.
Turkiye
Turkiye also warned that India’s strikes inside Pakistan and Azad Kashmir could trigger a wider war. The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure and supported Pakistan’s call for an impartial investigation into the April 22 Pahalgam incident.
Qatar
Qatar echoed the same concerns, urging both countries to exercise restraint and keep diplomatic channels open. The Qatari Foreign Ministry emphasized that dialogue remains the only viable path to resolving the crisis.
Russia
Russia, traditionally a close ally of India, also expressed concern. The Russian Foreign Ministry called for calm and underscored the importance of international cooperation against terrorism. It stressed that differences between India and Pakistan must be resolved peacefully. Notably, Moscow has maintained friendly ties with both South Asian nations in recent years.
France
France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also weighed in, urging both India and Pakistan to show restraint. In an interview with a French news outlet, Barrot acknowledged India’s security concerns but stressed the need to protect civilians and avoid any further escalation.
The international community’s reaction comes in the wake of India’s airstrikes on alleged terror targets in Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, which New Delhi claims were in retaliation for the April 22 attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 Indian tourists.
Pakistan has denied involvement and demanded an independent investigation, offering full cooperation.
