Brussels (TDI): The European Union and its 27 member states expressed grave concern regarding the recent tensions between Pakistan and India and reiterated the need to resolve the issues through engaging in dialogue.
In a statement issued by the European Union, on Thursday, the EU along with its 27 member states called on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, de-escalate the tensions as well as desist from further attacks to safeguard civilian lives on both sides. It also offered to work with both countries to help de-escalate.
Statement of @KajaKallas on behalf of the EU on India/Pakistan.
The EU unequivocally condemns the heinous terrorist attacks of 22 April. Terrorism can never be justified.
The EU will work with all parties to de-escalate the situation.
👇— EU Council Press (@EUCouncilPress) May 8, 2025
“The EU calls on both parties to exercise restraint, to de-escalate tensions and desist from further attacks to safeguard civilian lives on both sides,” the statement read.
It further stated, “The EU urges both sides to engage in dialogue. It is vital that India and Pakistan also live up to their obligations under international law and take all measures possible to protect civilian lives.”
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam Incident, Pakistan expressed grave concern over the loss of civilian lives in IIOJ&K. Shafqat Ali Khan, Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, said that Pakistan was deeply saddened by the incident and extended its condolences to the families of the deceased.
“We are concerned at the loss of tourists’ lives in an attack in Anantnag district of IIOJK,” the spokesperson said.
Read More: Pakistan Voices Concern Over Tourist Deaths in IIOJK Attack
However, right after the incident, the Indian government accused Pakistan of the attack and not only unilaterally and illegally withdrew from the Indus Water Treaty but also threatened that it would attack the Pakistan “at the time of its choosing.”
On Wednesday, the Indian army violated the territorial sovereignty of Pakistan and conducted missile strikes on five cities, martyring 31 people including women and children, and injuring 57 others.
The attacked was conducted after India failed to present evidence of Pakistan’s involvement in Pahalgam incident, had ignored its offer of impartial investigation by a neutral and transparent international authority.
Javaria Khalid is a writer and researcher, who specializes in Pakistan's Foreign Policy Analysis, Europe's Security, and Pakistan’s relations with the European countries and the EU. She can be reached at javariakhalid011@outlook.com
