ISLAMABAD: Britain’s King Charles has conveyed his “profound sympathy” to the people of Pakistan following devastating monsoon floods that have killed hundreds and displaced thousands across the country.
In a statement released by Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, the King said both he and Queen Camilla were “desperately saddened” by the tragic loss of life and widespread destruction of homes and livelihoods caused by the recent monsoon flooding in Pakistan, and the deadly helicopter crash during rescue operations.
“The scale of suffering is truly heart-rending, and our thoughts and deepest sympathy are with all those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods,” King Charles said.
The King also emphasised the historic ties between the United Kingdom and Pakistan. “We are especially mindful of the enduring bonds between our nations, and of the many families in the United Kingdom with close ties to Pakistan. Alongside them, we send our profound heartfelt condolences to those affected and stand in solidarity with the people of Pakistan during this most difficult time.”
Praising emergency workers and volunteers, King Charles said their selfless efforts were “a testament to resilience and compassion that shine through even in the darkest of hours.”
He concluded by offering “sincere admiration” for the Pakistani people’s resilience, along with his “special prayers.”
His Majesty The King has sent a message of condolence to the people of Pakistan following the tragic loss of life and widespread devastation caused by the recent monsoon flooding.https://t.co/tCMNelRX95
— UK in Pakistan 🇬🇧🇵🇰 (@ukinpakistan) August 20, 2025
According to Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), more than 20 people were killed on Wednesday alone as torrential rains battered the country.
Eleven deaths were reported in the northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan and 10 in Karachi, where heavy downpours caused widespread flooding, electrocutions, and building collapses.
Authorities said more than 400 people have died in the past week, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province the worst affected, recording over 350 fatalities.
Pakistan Army has established relief camps to provide medical aid, food rations, and tents for displaced families.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast further rainfall until at least Saturday, while NDMA Chairman Inam Haider Malik warned another heavy spell could hit at the end of August.
Officials have also cautioned that rains are likely to continue until mid-September.
Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change and faces increasingly severe weather events.
In 2022, catastrophic monsoon floods submerged one-third of the country, killing nearly 1,700 people.
