Berlin [Germany]: In a strong show of international solidarity, Germany has affirmed its support for India’s right to self-defense in response to terrorism, following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent launch of Operation Sindoor.
During a joint press briefing in Berlin on Friday with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed deep sympathy for the victims of the Pahalgam attack and underscored Germany’s firm stance against terrorism:
“We were appalled by the brutal terrorist attack on India on April 22. We condemned this attack on civilians in the strongest terms. India, of course, has every right to defend itself against terrorism.”
Wadephul also welcomed the ceasefire now in place between India and Pakistan, noting:
“What is important now is that this truce remains stable, that dialogue can happen in order to find bilateral solutions, taking into account the vital interests of both sides.”
He added that Germany and India share a long-standing dialogue on counterterrorism, which will be further strengthened.
Reiterating Germany’s unwavering support for global efforts against terrorism, the minister said:
“Terrorism must never have a place in the world, anywhere. We support everyone who fights and has to fight terrorism.”
In response, EAM Jaishankar expressed appreciation for Germany’s support and understanding of India’s position:
“We had a conversation on May 7, when we initiated our operations. It was a very understanding and positive conversation. Germany’s solidarity and recognition that every nation has the right to defend itself against terrorism is deeply appreciated.”
Jaishankar, currently on an official visit to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany (May 19–24), emphasized India’s principled position:
“India has zero tolerance for terrorism. We will never give in to nuclear blackmail, and we will deal with Pakistan purely bilaterally. There should be no confusion on that.”
Earlier in the day, Jaishankar also met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, delivering greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussing broader bilateral and strategic issues.
Background: Operation Sindoor
India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 as a direct and decisive military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians. The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir, resulting in the elimination of over 100 terrorists affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Following retaliatory attacks from Pakistan—ranging from cross-border shelling to drone incursions—India conducted coordinated strikes, damaging radar systems, communication nodes, and eight Pakistani airbases. A mutual ceasefire was agreed upon on May 10 after Pakistan’s DGMO requested cessation of hostilities.