Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, India launched "Operation Sindoor," targeting terrorist infrastructure inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation, which struck nine sites, has triggered reactions from global leaders, including Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, and various international bodies.
India's action was a response to the April 22nd terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the death of 26 people. Indian officials have stated that the operation was "focused, measured, and non-escalatory," emphasizing that only terror centers were targeted, with no Pakistani military facilities hit. The Indian Army declared that "Justice is served" following the strikes.
United States President Donald Trump acknowledged the situation, stating he hopes it "ends very quickly". He admitted to hearing about the strikes as he was entering the Oval Office and alluded to the long-standing tensions between the two nations. Trump offered assistance to both countries if needed, emphasizing his good relationships with both India and Pakistan and expressing his desire to see them "work it out". US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, after being briefed by Indian NSA Ajit Doval, called for de-escalation and encouraged peaceful resolution through dialogue.
Russia expressed alarm and urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration of the situation, while hoping for a peaceful diplomatic resolution.
China called on both India and Pakistan to prioritize peace and stability, urging them to remain calm and avoid actions that could complicate the situation. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stated their willingness to play a constructive role in easing tensions.
Several other countries and international bodies have also reacted to the situation. Israel called Operation Sindoor an act of self-defense by India. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) called for de-escalation and emphasized that diplomacy and dialogue are the most effective means of resolving the crisis peacefully. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern and called for maximum military restraint from both countries, warning against a military confrontation.
India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, spoke with his counterparts from France, Germany and Japan, briefing them on India's actions and expressing appreciation for their support and solidarity.
The Indian embassy in the US explained that India had credible leads, technical inputs, survivor testimonies, and other evidence pointing to the involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in the Pahalgam attack. India conveyed its expectation that Pakistan would take action against the terrorists and the infrastructure supporting them.
The US Speaker Mike Johnson affirmed that Washington would provide the necessary resources to aid New Delhi's fight against terrorism.
Operation Sindoor has led to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with the international community urging restraint and de-escalation. While some countries have expressed support for India's right to self-defense, others have called for dialogue and peaceful resolution to avoid further conflict.
