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Global Reactions to India's Airstrikes in Pakistan: A Call for Restraint

India's recent airstrikes on targets in Pakistan have sparked significant international reactions. Following a deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, the operation aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure has drawn responses from global powers, including the US, UN, China, and Russia. Each has called for restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation. As tensions rise, Pakistan has condemned the strikes, reporting civilian casualties and declaring a state of emergency. The situation remains fluid, with both nations on high alert along the Line of Control. Read on for a detailed overview of the global response to this critical situation.
By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2025, 12:33 IST
Global Reactions to India's Airstrikes in Pakistan: A Call for Restraint

International Response to India's Military Action

New Delhi: India's recent airstrikes targeting multiple locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir have garnered significant international attention, prompting swift reactions from major global powers. The operation, executed on May 6, aimed at nine suspected terrorist infrastructure sites following a tragic attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians.

The Indian government attributed the Pahalgam incident to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Toiba, believed to be operating from within Pakistani territory. This military action has triggered a notable diplomatic response across various global capitals.

United States

The US administration has called for calm, with President Donald Trump describing the situation as “deeply concerning.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the necessity of preventing further escalation and fostering dialogue between the two nuclear-armed nations.

United Nations

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for “maximum military restraint” and urged both India and Pakistan to prioritize peace and stability in the region.

China

The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed its concerns regarding India's actions, urging both nations to de-escalate tensions through diplomatic means. China reiterated its commitment to regional peace and expressed regret over the escalating military situation.

France

France has shown solidarity with India's right to self-defense, condemning terrorism in all its forms. While supporting India's actions against terrorist bases, France also advocated for restraint to prevent a broader conflict.

European Union

The EU issued a statement expressing concern over the rising tensions and called for peaceful resolutions to the issues at hand, reaffirming its support for efforts aimed at regional peace.

Russia

Moscow has urged restraint and encouraged both New Delhi and Islamabad to engage in dialogue, stressing that military confrontations could destabilize the wider South Asian region.

Pakistan

In response, Pakistan condemned the airstrikes, reporting civilian casualties, including women and children. Pakistani officials claimed that two Indian jets were shot down and retaliatory actions were initiated, including strikes on Indian military installations.

The authorities in Pakistan's Punjab province declared a state of emergency and called for nationwide preparedness. Reports indicated damage to civilian structures, including mosques and homes, in the affected areas.

The situation remains dynamic as both nations continue to maintain heightened military readiness along the Line of Control.

S Gopal Puri