Saudi Arabia, Qatar urge India-Pakistan to exercise restrain

Saudi Arabia and Qatar on Wednesday expressed concern over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following continued cross-border exchanges of fire.

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In a statement issued, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged both nations to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and resolve disputes through diplomatic means. It also emphasised the importance of good neighbourliness and regional stability.

Saudi Arabia reiterated its support for all efforts aimed at defusing tensions and maintaining peace in South Asia.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expresses its concern over the escalating tensions between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, Qatar also called on both countries to show maximum restraint and prioritise dialogue.

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that resolving disputes peacefully aligns with Doha’s belief in diplomacy as the most effective means to address regional and global conflicts.

These statements follow India’s suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan last week, in response to a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam.

Tensions have escalated further with both countries imposing trade and transport restrictions and suspending consular services, amid growing fears of a potential conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.