Japan Urges India and Pakistan to Exercise Restraint, Avoid Escalation Amid Kashmir Tensions

New Delhi/Tokyo, May 7: Amid mounting tensions between India and Pakistan following a recent terrorist attack in Kashmir that induced India to attack 9 location inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) this morning, Japan has issued a strong appeal to both countries to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that could lead to further escalation.

The Japanese government expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation and emphasized the need for dialogue and stability in the South Asian region.

In a statement issued today, Japanese Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi noted that India had announced a retaliatory strike on terrorist facilities in response to the April 22 attack in Kashmir. “Japan once again strongly condemns such terrorist acts,” said Iwaya, referring to the deadly incident that claimed multiple lives and left many injured. “We are deeply concerned that the recent events could lead to further reprisals and escalate into a full-scale military conflict.”

The foreign minister called on New Delhi and Islamabad to prioritize peace and regional stability. “Japan strongly urges both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilize the situation through dialogue for the peace and stability in South Asia,” the statement said.

Iwaya also confirmed that the Japanese government is monitoring the developments closely and is committed to taking all necessary measures to protect its nationals abroad.

The current diplomatic outreach follows two separate messages of condolence issued on April 23 by senior Japanese leaders in the wake of the April 22 attack.

In his earlier message to Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi said, “I extend my sincere condolences to those who lost their lives and their bereaved families… I would also like to express my deepest sympathy to the injured.” He added unequivocally, “Terrorism cannot be justified for any reason. Japan strongly condemns all forms of terrorism and is firmly committed to combating terrorism in cooperation with India and the international community.”

On the same day, Japanese Prime Minister ISHIBA Shigeru expressed similar sentiments in a message addressed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “I cannot help but feel great shock and anger regarding the large number of casualties caused by the terrorist attack carried out yesterday in Kashmir,” wrote Prime Minister Ishiba. “I resolutely condemn such a vicious attack.”

He further stated, “On behalf of the Japanese government and people, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to those who lost their lives and their bereaved families, and express my heartfelt sympathy to those who were injured. I express my heartfelt solidarity to the people of India in the process of overcoming this difficult time.”

With historical ties to India and Pakistan and a longstanding commitment to regional peace, Japan has often acted as a voice of moderation in the subcontinent’s most volatile disputes. Today’s statement reaffirms Tokyo’s consistent stance against terrorism and underscores its advocacy for dialogue-driven solutions, particularly in high-stakes confrontations such as those currently unfolding in Kashmir.

As global attention turns toward South Asia, Japan’s message adds to international calls urging calm, de-escalation, and renewed diplomatic engagement between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.