Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended heartfelt condolences to Pakistan and emphasized the importance of de-escalation in the wake of India’s missile strikes on Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). During a phone call with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday, Erdogan expressed solidarity and reiterated Turkey’s support for Islamabad’s response to the crisis, according to a statement from the Turkish Presidency.
Turkey Urges Restraint and Supports Pakistan’s Position
In the official statement, Erdogan conveyed his government’s backing of Pakistan’s measured stance amid rising regional tensions. He reportedly affirmed Turkey’s willingness to contribute to diplomatic efforts aimed at defusing the situation.
“Erdogan stated that Turkey was ready to do what it can to prevent the tensions from escalating, and that his diplomatic contacts in that regard would continue,” the Turkish presidency said.
Erdogan also expressed agreement with Pakistan’s demand for an international investigation into the April 22 militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in 26 fatalities. While India has accused Pakistan of orchestrating the attack, Islamabad has strongly denied the allegations.
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry had earlier issued a condemnation of India’s military actions, cautioning that such unilateral moves could spiral into “an all-out war”.
Erdogan Voices Concern Over Civilian Losses
Later on Wednesday, Erdogan addressed the situation on social media, voicing deep concern over the loss of civilian lives due to missile strikes.
We are concerned that the tension between Pakistan and India could escalate into open conflict with missile attacks that have resulted in the martyrdom of numerous civilians,” he said.
“I pray for Allah’s mercy for our brothers who lost their lives in the attacks, and I once again extend my condolences to the brotherly people and state of Pakistan,” he added.
He reiterated his backing for an impartial probe into the Kashmir attack, stating:
“We find Pakistan’s proposal to conduct an international investigation regarding the heinous terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir to be valuable.”
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Erdogan concluded by underlining Turkey’s commitment to peace in the region:
“As Türkiye, despite those who pour fuel on the fire, we are making every effort to reduce tensions and open channels of dialogue before events reach an irreversible point.”
India’s Military Response: Operation Sindoor
Following the April 22 attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, aimed at dismantling alleged terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK. Two weeks after the incident, Indian forces executed precision strikes against militant facilities and reportedly thwarted Pakistan’s retaliatory attempts to target Indian military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur, and other key regions using drones and missiles.
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India’s Defence Ministry issued a statement affirming its resolve:
India remains “fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its people.”
