USA (Commonwealth Union)_ As tensions rise between India and Pakistan following a deadly attack in Kashmir, members of the Indian and Pakistani diaspora around the world are calling for peace, unity, and restraint. From the UK to Canada, the UAE, and New Zealand, communities are expressing concern over the escalating conflict and urging their home countries to seek a peaceful resolution.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, people from the Pakistani and Indian communities are sharing their concerns as tensions between the two countries grow after a deadly incident in Kashmir. On April 22, a violent attack in the tourist town of Pahalgam led to the deaths of 26 civilians. The tragedy was the worst attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir since 2019. In East Ham, London, members of both communities are calling for calm and understanding. Accordingly, Adil Iqbal Malik, a British Pakistani lawyer, said that the conflict between India and Pakistan has a long history. “This has happened many times before,” he said. “Since 1947, the two countries have fought several wars and have remained hostile toward each other.” Malik, who has lived in London for over a decade, said that many people in the UK are worried about their relatives back in South Asia. “This region is very sensitive because both countries have nuclear weapons,” he explained. “A conflict there could have global consequences.”
Also read: Laughed Off as ‘Too Young’—Now She’s a World Record Holder at 19
Canada
In Canada, people with roots in India and Pakistan are expressing concern. Recently, Indian missiles hit areas in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, raising fears in the region. Jatinder Bhan, who moved from Kashmir years ago and now lives in Coquitlam, B.C., said he struggles to understand the ongoing violence. “We just hope peace will come one day, and that people from all sides can live together respectfully,” he said. Similar thoughts were shared during a prayer meeting at a Hindu temple in Surrey. Vinay Sharma, from the Vedic Hindu Cultural Society, said he prays for an end to the violence. “In Hinduism, we are taught to see the whole world as one family,” Sharma explained. “We care for everyone, and we do not want to see more bloodshed.” Haroon Khan, a director with both the Pakistan-Canada Association and a mosque in Vancouver, said its time for global leaders to step in and help ease tensions. He reminded people that in Canada, Indian and Pakistani communities live side by side as friends and neighbors.
Also read: Indian-Origin CEO to Lead Space Revolution! Tejpaul Bhatia Takes Command at Axiom Space
Muslim Council of Britain
The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) also released a statement, urging both nations to remain calm and avoid further violence after the Pahalgam attack. The MCB noted that events like these deeply affect South Asian communities living in the UK. The council acknowledged the right to protest but called for peaceful actions that do not create division. The MCB also said that a fair investigation into the attack and a peaceful solution for Kashmir is important. They promised to work with community leaders to promote dialogue and understanding between British Indians and Pakistanis. The council highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two groups in the UK and encouraged mutual respect.
Also read: Pope Francis and India: A Spiritual Bond Cut Short by Death
UAE
In the United Arab Emirates, many Indian and Pakistani expats are closely following the ongoing crisis. People’s anxiety increased after India launched a missile strike in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack and Pakistan pledged to respond. Many in the UAE said they are constantly watching updates and hope their home countries choose peace over conflict.
New Zealand
In Auckland, about 100 people gathered at Aotea Square for a candlelight vigil to honor the victims of the Kashmir attack. The peaceful gathering was held on Thursday evening. New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters condemned the violence and expressed support for India. In a post, he said New Zealand stands by the Indian people and sent condolences to the victims’ families. Organizers of the vigil said they wanted to show unity during this tragic time.
Indian American Lawmakers
Several Indian American members also delivered strong but differing responses to India’s retaliatory strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, following last month’s deadly attack in Pahalgam. Accordingly, representative Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois urged caution, supporting India’s right to defend itself while warning against using regional conflict as a justification for undermining democratic institutions. He stressed the importance of confronting terrorism without allowing it to become a pretext for democratic erosion in Pakistan. Additionally, representative Shri Thanedar of Michigan voiced unequivocal support for India’s actions. “Terrorism cannot be tolerated, and it cannot go unanswered,” Thanedar stated. “India has the right to defend its people, and I stand firmly with our ally in its efforts to dismantle these extremist networks.”
