In response to India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror sites deep inside Pakistan on May 7, the Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed concern and called for restraint from both nations. The operation, carried out by the Indian Armed Forces in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, marked a significant military action in response to cross-border terrorism.
China’s Call for Calm and Restraint
A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized the need for both India and Pakistan to act with restraint and in the interest of peace and stability. The statement read:
“We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each other’s neighbors. They’re both China’s neighbors as well. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation.”
This statement follows India’s military strike targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). These strikes were in direct response to the Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, with several others injured.
India’s Focused and Measured Action
The Indian Ministry of Defence clarified that the operation was carried out in a focused and non-escalatory manner, with no military facilities in Pakistan targeted. It further stressed that restraint was demonstrated in the selection of targets and the method of execution.
“Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.”
The strikes, which targeted top leaders of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), were part of a larger strategy to disrupt terrorist activities emanating from these regions. The operation was a coordinated effort, with assets mobilized from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally monitored the operation, ensuring its execution throughout the night.
Strategic Military Strike
The operation, which took place in the early hours of May 7, resulted in the successful destruction of nine terrorist targets. Four of these sites were located in Pakistan—including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot—and five others were situated in PoJK. The operation is being seen as India’s most significant military action inside Pakistan’s territory since 1971.
The selected targets were vital hubs for terrorism financing and training camps linked to groups responsible for cross-border terrorist attacks. Sources confirmed the use of special precision munitions to ensure accuracy in hitting the identified locations.
Tensions and Global Reactions
The Chinese statement reflects the international concern regarding the potential for further escalation between India and Pakistan. Both nations have experienced decades of tension and conflict, primarily over the disputed region of Kashmir. As both countries navigate these delicate geopolitical waters, the international community, including China, continues to advocate for dialogue and peaceful solutions.
Conclusion
While the Indian government and armed forces maintain that Operation Sindoor was a justified and measured response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the call for restraint from China and the international community underscores the fragility of the situation. As both India and Pakistan continue to deal with terrorist threats, the world remains watchful of the broader consequences and the potential for peace or further conflict.