Moeen Ali Reveals Family Was in PoK During Operation Sindoor
KKR all-rounder Moeen Ali disclosed that his parents were in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir during India’s Operation Sindoor, launched after the Pahalgam terror attack. The military strikes disrupted IPL 2025, prompting Moeen and other foreign players to exit India temporarily. Moeen described the situation as chaotic, with fears of cancelled flights and concern for loved ones amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions.
When the Indian armed forces launched “Operation Sindoor” in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, tensions escalated rapidly between India and Pakistan, severely affecting the IPL 2025 season. Moeen Ali, an all-rounder for Kolkata Knight Riders, revealed that his parents were in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) at the time of the strikes. Speaking on the “Beard Before Wicket” podcast, Moeen recalled the anxiety and fear he felt, as his family was just an hour or so away from the targeted regions. Fortunately, his parents managed to catch the only available flight out that day.
The situation caused panic among overseas players, many of whom decided to return to their home countries as the conflict intensified. Moeen described the period as chaotic, saying it felt like they were caught in the middle of a war despite not hearing actual strikes. The uncertainty was worsened by widespread misinformation and fears of cancelled flights, leaving players unsure of their safety or next steps.
Although a ceasefire later allowed the IPL to resume, Moeen chose not to return, citing concerns for safety and family. He expressed empathy for local players — Indian and Pakistani — who had fewer options and faced greater uncertainty during the crisis.
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