Muslim Council of Britain urges India, Pakistan to defuse tensions citing impact to diaspora communities

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) on Wednesday issued a strong call for peace and unity in response to the recent escalation between India and Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam attack and subsequent military clashes between the two countries.

The MCB issued a statement urging both countries to avoid further conflict and expressed concern about the impact of international tensions on diaspora communities in the UK.

“In light of the recent escalation between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack and subsequent military actions, the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) urges both India and Pakistan to show restraint and not escalate matters even more,” the statement read.

The council acknowledged the deep emotional impact of the conflict on British Indian and Pakistani communities, noting that protests and rising tensions have recently emerged across the UK.

“The MCB recognizes the profound impact such international events can have on diaspora communities. Recently, demonstrations and heightened emotions have been observed among British Indian and Pakistani communities. While the right to peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy, we urge all individuals to ensure that expressions of concern do not lead to division or unrest on our streets.”

Calling for a just and stable resolution to the conflict, the MCB stressed the importance of a peaceful settlement for the Kashmiri people and demanded an international investigation into the Pahalgam attacks.

“Finding a peaceful resolution for the hopes and aspirations of the Kashmiri people and an international investigation into the Pahalgam attacks are necessary to ensure that peace is based on stable and just foundations.”

The escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbors comes in the wake of an April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, claiming there were cross-border links. Pakistan denied that it had anything to do with the killings.

In a separate statement, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry called the Indian attack an "unprovoked and blatant act of war" and a violation of its sovereignty.

Separately, Pakistan's Punjab province, which borders India, declared a state of emergency and closed all educational institutions on Wednesday. Islamabad, Pakistan's capital, also closed its schools.