Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed serious concern over the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India following recent missile strikes.
He supported Pakistan’s demand for an independent international inquiry into the recent events in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), calling it a “valuable” step toward de-escalation.
In a statement issued on social media, Erdogan warned that the situation could spiral into open conflict if not addressed promptly.
“We are concerned that the tension between Pakistan and India could escalate into an open conflict,” said Erdogan, while extending prayers for those martyred in the strikes and condolences to the people and government of Pakistan.
According to Pakistan, India launched an unprovoked attack early Wednesday on six different locations, including mosques and hydropower projects in Punjab and Azad Jammu & Kashmir. At least 31 civilians, including children, were martyred and 57 others were injured. The targeted areas included Ahmedpur East, Muridke, Sialkot, Shakkargarh, Muzaffarabad, and Kotli.
In response, the Pakistan Armed Forces launched retaliatory strikes, shooting down five Indian Air Force jets, seven drones, and destroying military assets including a brigade headquarters and several posts along the Line of Control (LoC).
President Erdogan confirmed he had a phone conversation with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the crisis. He emphasized Turkiye’s efforts to reduce tensions and promote dialogue, stating, “Despite those who pour fuel on the fire, Türkiye is doing everything it can to lower tensions and open channels for dialogue before the situation reaches a point of no return.”
Pakistan’s civil and military leadership also issued a strong warning, vowing that any further provocation would be met with a powerful and unmistakable response.
“When Pakistan strikes, it will be unmistakable and undeniable. You won’t need the media to explain the impact will speak for itself,” said DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry in a joint press conference with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
He also rejected India’s allegations that Pakistan was behind attacks on 15 Indian locations, calling the claims baseless and fabricated.
The statement from Turkiye’s president adds significant diplomatic weight to Pakistan’s position, reinforcing calls for restraint, accountability, and peaceful resolution in a region already on edge.
