Bangladesh calls for restraint as India-Pakistan conflict escalates

Bangladesh has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan, urging both countries to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could worsen the situation.

The Bangladesh government is "closely monitoring" developments in the neighboring countries, as stated by the Foreign Ministry on Wednesday.

"In the interest of regional peace, prosperity, and stability, Bangladesh remains hopeful that tensions will be eased through diplomatic efforts, leading to lasting peace for the benefit of the people in the region," the Ministry said.

Earlier, India launched attacks on nine sites within Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

In response, Islamabad vowed retaliation, marking the most intense fighting between the two nuclear-armed nations in years.

According to Pakistan's military, at least 26 people were killed on their side, while 12 deaths were reported in India.

Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain revealed that Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had called him on Monday evening to brief Dhaka on Islamabad's actions following the escalation.

Speaking to the media, Touhid reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to peace and called for efforts to de-escalate the crisis.

"He [Dar] did not request support or any specific reaction. I simply stated that peace must prevail, and steps should be taken to de-escalate tensions. No incident should occur that could further escalate the situation. That is our expectation," Touhid said.

The Foreign Adviser also emphasized the importance of dialogue as a means of resolving regional disputes.

"We seek to resolve any issue through dialogue," he added.

When asked whether Bangladesh would convey the same message to India, Touhid responded, "If India wishes to hear from me, I will communicate the same message to Delhi. There’s no need to say anything in advance."