ISLAMABAD; The United States, United Kingdom, and France have expressed deep condolences and solidarity with Pakistan following the deaths of nearly 200 people in severe flash floods and heavy rains that have battered northern regions, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
Over the past 24 hours, torrential rains in northwest Pakistan triggered cloudbursts, lightning strikes, flash floods, and building collapses, leaving 180 dead in KP alone. The extreme weather also caused a government rescue helicopter to crash on Friday, killing all personnel onboard. One local resident described the disaster as “doomsday.”
KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur announced Saturday would be observed as a day of mourning, with the national flag flying at half-mast across the province. Victims, described as “martyrs” in the official statement, will be buried with full state honours.
British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott said she was “devastated” by the significant loss of life, including those killed in the helicopter crash during relief operations. “My thoughts are with the families affected. We stand by Pakistan at this difficult time,” she said in a post on X.
US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker also expressed her sorrow, saying she was “deeply grieved by the tragic loss of life and devastation caused by today’s flash floods.” She extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and affirmed: “My team and I stand in solidarity with the people of Pakistan during this difficult time.”
The French Embassy in Pakistan stated it was “deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, where devastating flash floods have claimed precious lives, including a rescue helicopter crew, and left many missing.” The statement added: “Our hearts break for the families in the hardest-hit areas.”
