Brazil Voices Concern Over Kashmir Tensions Amid India's Military Response
Brazil's Stance on Kashmir Conflict
Brasilia: The Brazilian government has reiterated its condemnation of terrorism, expressing serious concern regarding the military actions in Kashmir amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
This statement follows India's launch of Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine significant terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as a response to the tragic terror attack on April 22 that resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians.
In a statement released on Thursday, Brazil's Foreign Ministry emphasized, "As stated on April 23 regarding the Kashmir attack, we firmly reject all forms of terrorism. We urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation of tensions."
Additionally, the Ministry advised Brazilian citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Kashmir and nearby areas, assuring that they are monitoring the situation for any Brazilians in the region, with no reports of Brazilian casualties.
On the same day, Brazilian President Lula de Silva reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to express solidarity with India in its battle against terrorism and to convey condolences for the lives lost in the Pahalgam attack.
PM Modi expressed gratitude to President Lula for his condolences, and both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing the strategic partnership between India and Brazil. Modi also extended his best wishes for Brazil's successful presidency of BRICS this year, as noted by Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, on social media.
Brazil had previously condemned the Pahalgam attack, expressing its support for India. The Foreign Ministry stated, "The Brazilian government is deeply saddened by the attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. We reiterate our condemnation of all acts of terrorism and extend our heartfelt condolences to the victims' families, wishing a swift recovery to the injured, while expressing solidarity with the Indian government and its people."
Tensions escalated further on Thursday as Pakistan's military attempted to target military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur, and other areas using missiles and drones, all of which were successfully intercepted by Indian forces.
Operation Sindoor commenced in the early hours of Wednesday, involving a coordinated effort by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. This operation aimed at dismantling the infrastructure associated with the terrorist groups responsible for the April 22 attack.
The Indian government stated that it has exercised its right to respond to heinous acts of terrorism originating from Pakistan. Operation Sindoor represents one of India's most assertive military responses across the border since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.