World leaders acknowledge India’s right to self-defence, call for restraint

By Poojita Chand

Acknowledging India’s reasons for the military strike on terror facilities in Pakistan in response to April 22 terror attack in Kashmir, the world’s leading powers expressed concern and exhorted the two nuclear-armed neighbours to exercise restraint and de-escalate tensions.

Most statements by world leaders recognised India’s right to self-defence following the April 22 massacre of tourists by Pakistan-based terrorists, in Pahalgam, a popular scenic spot in Kashmir Valley. The majority of victims were Hindu males. There was no explicit criticism of India’s audacious move to strike at 9 terrorist facilities on May 7 under the emotively named “Operation Sindoor,” but concern and restrain recur in official reactions from the world leaders.

US Reacting to India’s airstrikes under Operation Sindoor, US President Donald Trump called the situation “a shame” and urged India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions. “Nobody wants to see two powerful nations going down that road.” In a clear-cut message, he said: “I just hope it ends very quickly.” “They’ve been fighting for a long time. They’ve been fighting for many, many decades and centuries, actually, if you really think about it,” Trump said when asked about the attacks between India and Pakistan. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to engage with both Indian and Pakistani leadership for a peaceful resolution.  Russia Russia expressed deep concern about the deepening military confrontation between India and Pakistan. Moscow called on both countries to show restraint and condemned all forms of terrorism.  “Deeply concerned about the deepening military confrontation between India and Pakistan,” said Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. China Surprisingly, China’s response was more measured. Beijing expressed “regret” over India’s military action and concern about the current developments, calling on both India and Pakistan to prioritise peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint, and avoid actions that further complicate the situation. In a significant balancing act, China emphasised that India and Pakistan are neighbours who cannot be separated and are also China’s neighbours. “China expresses regret over India’s military actions this morning and is concerned about the current developments. China opposes all forms of terrorism,” said the spokesperson of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritise peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, and avoid taking actions that further complicate the situation.” Israel Israel was the one country that took side and spoke in support of India. Israel underlined that it views India’s actions as a legitimate response to terrorism and an exercise of its right to self-defence. “Israel supports India’s right for self defense. Terrorists should know there’s no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocents,” Israel’s Ambassador to India Reuven Azar posted on X. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres (spokesperson): “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.” United Kingdom Foreign Minister David Lammy: “Current tensions between India and Pakistan are a serious concern.” “The UK government is urging India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward.” Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak “India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure.” “No nation should have to accept terrorist attacks being launched against it from land controlled by another country. India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure. There can be no impunity for terrorists.” — posted on X France Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot: “We understand India’s desire to protect itself against the scourge of terrorism, but we obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to avoid escalation and, of course, to protect civilians.” Japan 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 stabilise the situation through dialogue.” United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Urged both India and Pakistan to “exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions and avoid further escalations,” — government statement. “Exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and avoid further escalation that could threaten regional and international peace.” Called for “dialogue and mutual understanding to prevent military escalation, strengthen stability in South Asia, and avoid further regional tensions.” Iran Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmail Baghaei  described the military escalation as a “serious cause for concern,” and expressed hope that “both sides could still de-escalate.”  Iran also “called on both sides to exercise restraint.” Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs: “Follows with great concern the continuing escalation between India and Pakistan.” Called for “resolving the crisis through diplomatic channels.”  “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the urgent need to keep communication channels open between India and Pakistan.”