The United Kingdom has offered diplomatic support as India and Pakistan exchanged deadly cross-border fire in the Kashmir region.
Earlier, Newsband reported that Indian forces launched missile strikes on Tuesday, hitting six targets in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir and Punjab.
The strikes killed 19 civilians and injured 38, according to local officials.
Pakistan’s military also confirmed a mosque was hit in Bahawalpur, killing 13 people, including one child.
In retaliation, Pakistani troops responded with artillery shelling into Indian-administered Kashmir, which has killed seven civilians and wounded 30 in Poonch district, Indian officials reported.
India stated its strikes were proportionate and aimed at known militant positions not civilians.
Pakistan’s military claimed it downed five Indian jets during retaliation, which Indian defense have not confirm the claim from Pakistan.
The conflict intensified after a massacre in Indian Kashmir killed 22 tourists last month.
India blamed Pakistan-based militants for the killings.
Pakistan denied involvement and condemned civilian casualties on both sides.
UK and UN call for immediate de-escalation
UK Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds warned the situation was “hugely worrying” and demanded immediate restraint.
Reynolds said Foreign Secretary David Lammy contacted both countries to urge calm.
He told the BBC the UK supports peace, dialogue, and regional stability.
The UK Foreign Office updated travel advice for the region.
Officials warned against travel within 10 kilometers of the border or Line of Control.
Pakistan closed its airspace, disrupting international flights.
British travelers were advised to contact airlines for new travel information.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both nations to exercise maximum restraint.
He warned that a nuclear confrontation would be catastrophic for the region and the world.
Scottish First Minister John Swinney expressed deep concern over rising tensions.
Labour MP Stella Creasy called for urgent global diplomacy to prevent war.
Former Minister Tariq Ahmad said the potential for war tonight is real.
India and Pakistan have fought several wars over Kashmir in past decades.
Leaders worldwide called for peace, restraint, and dialogue to avoid a new military confrontation in South Asia.
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