Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai urges India, Pakistan to de-escalate tensions

Malala Yousafzai urged leaders in India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions and called on the international community to “act now” and promote dialogue between the nuclear-armed neighbors, who she said are not enemies but face a common foe of “hatred and violence.”

“I strongly urge leaders in India and Pakistan to take steps to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians — especially children — and unite against the forces of division,” the Pakistani Nobel Peace Prize winner said in a post on X on Thursday.

“The international community must act now to promote dialogue and diplomacy. Peace is the only way forward for our collective security and prosperity,” she added.

She offered condolences for the families of victims in both countries and expressed concern for her friends and family in Pakistan.

“I am thinking of all my friends and family – and all the educators, advocates and girls we work with – in Pakistan during this dangerous time,” she wrote.

At least 43 deaths have been reported so far from both sides of the border collectively following Wednesday’s violence. Islamabad said 31 civilians were killed by the Indian strikes and firing along the border, and New Delhi added at least 12 dead from Pakistani shelling.