Joint statement on India-Pakistan conflict

"As civic and faith leaders in Leeds, we welcome news of the ceasefire in hostilities between India and Pakistan following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

"Terrorism in any form goes against the values of humanity. We condemn all forms of terrorism affecting any communities and countries across the world.

"We affirm our commitment to stand together at this time of increased tension between India and Pakistan.

"We are deeply saddened and troubled by the loss of lives, property and livelihoods. Our hearts go out to all those who have been injured, those who are grieving and those who are living in fear of further attacks. We recognise that many in Leeds will also be worried for family and friends in the affected areas. We pray for everyone caught up in the conflict.

"We have a strong and enduring history in Leeds of caring for one another and of acting responsibly in the face of international events that shake us. We will not let these tensions disrupt the peace we cherish in our neighbourhoods and communities.

"The faith leaders of Leeds stand firmly against any form of extremism affecting any community in our city. We urge our communities to reject division and to avoid provocation. We would ask all those in our communities to seek to de-escalate tension, recognising our love for our neighbours, reaching out to one another in mutual respect and care. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to peace and concord and to standing against hatred and division.

"We call on international leaders to continue taking steps to de-escalate the situation through dialogue. Escalation will only lead to the suffering of more innocent people, and everything must be done to prevent further harm.

"We are a proud city where people of many backgrounds, faiths, and cultures live side by side. Hate has no place on our streets and together we issue this collective call for peace. We have not much control over what is happening internationally, but we can continue to live as neighbours who care for one another and our shared neighbourhoods.

"In this great city which we all call home, we stand shoulder to shoulder - as part of Team Leeds. One community, one voice, one people. We call on all parties to pray and to work tirelessly for a just peace."

Signatories:

Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung – Lord Mayor of Leeds

Councillor James Lewis – Leader Leeds City Council

Ed Whiting – Chief executive Leeds City Council

Councillor Oliver Edwards - Faith, Religion and Belief Champion

The Rt. Revd. Arun Arora – Chair Leeds Faith Forum

Qari Assim MBE – Leeds Faith Forum

Rasool Bhamani – Leeds Faith Forum

Dharmesh Mistry – Leeds Faith Forum

Simon Phillips – Vice Chair Leeds Faith Forum

Girish Sonigra – Leeds Faith Forum

Chiragi Solanki - Leeds Faith Forum

Nirav Thakker – Leeds Faith Forum

ENDS 

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