The long-standing territorial dispute over Kashmir between Pakistan and India has once again intensified, raising concerns of a potential escalation into full-scale warfare. In light of the growing tensions, believers are urgently called to pray for the safety and well-being of all affected, especially local church members, Korean missionaries, and their families.
Ji SungBae, President of Pakistan Adventist Seminary & College (PASC), reported a dire situation after suicide drone attacks struck seven major cities in Pakistan on May 7 (local time), 2025, greatly heightening national anxiety and unrest.
Dr. Ji voiced concern, noting that some targeted areas lie near Lahore, where the Pakistan Union is headquartered, and Sheikhupura, home to PASC. These cities are located approximately 40 minutes and 1.5 hours respectively from the Indian border, making mission operations and educational institutions increasingly vulnerable should war break out.
On May 8, the day after hostilities began, the Northern Asia-Pacific Division (NSD) and the Pakistan Union held an emergency meeting to assess the situation and address the safety of missionaries currently in Pakistan. After evaluating the instability and the high risk of further conflict, the NSD recommended immediately evacuating all missionaries.
Local churches and educational institutions have begun preparing emergency contact networks and evacuation plans in anticipation of further escalation. However, the rapidly changing situation continues to raise serious concerns. Dr. Ji urged the need for vigilant, real-time responses by the government and church guidelines and appealed to the Korean church community for continued prayers for peace and a swift resolution.
This recent conflict began after military clashes erupted in the Kashmir border region. India accused Pakistan of sheltering militant groups that crossed the border and launched attacks on Indian territory. In response, Pakistan claimed that Indian forces violated its sovereignty and killed Pakistani citizens, and it vowed to retaliate strongly. These mutual accusations and growing military tensions have paralyzed diplomatic channels and triggered direct armed conflict.
In response, the Pakistani government declared a national emergency, closed its airspace for 48 hours, and suspended all civilian flights. As a result, missionaries and foreign residents seeking to evacuate remain stranded. The government issued emergency safety guidelines to the public, while residents in major cities rushed to stockpile food and essential supplies.