The German government has expressed concern over escalating tensions between South Asia’s two nuclear-armed nations. In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said, “Following the horrific terrorist attack in Kashmir and India’s military response, both countries must take immediate responsible action.”
The statement further noted, “Escalation must be prevented, and civilian safety ensured. We are in contact with India and Pakistan and are closely monitoring the situation.”
The Foreign Ministry announced it will host a meeting of the government’s crisis committee on Wednesday. It also urged German citizens in the region to follow the government’s travel and safety advisories.
On his first foreign trip since taking office on Tuesday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, speaking in Paris, called for restraint from both sides. “We are deeply concerned by last night’s clashes between these two nuclear powers,” Merz said at a press conference. “Now, more than ever, prudence and clear thinking are essential.”
France also called for restraint from India and Pakistan. In a television interview, the French Foreign Minister stated, “We understand India’s desire to protect itself from the threat of terrorism, but we clearly call on both India and Pakistan to avoid escalation and, above all, to exercise restraint to ensure civilian safety.”
The UK pledged to assist both nations in de-escalating tensions. A statement from the British Foreign Office said, “We are closely monitoring the situation. British citizens should stay updated with our travel advice and follow the guidance of local authorities.”
