UN Chief Calls for Restraint Between India and Pakistan Following Pahalgam Attack
UN Secretary-General Urges Peaceful Resolution
On Monday, António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, appealed to both India and Pakistan to steer clear of military conflict in light of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
Guterres expressed his concerns on social media, stating, “Tensions between India and Pakistan are at their highest in years,” and he condemned the attack vehemently.
The incident, which occurred on April 22 in the Baisaran area near Pahalgam, resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including a Nepali national, and left 17 others injured. Reports indicate that the attackers specifically targeted tourists based on their religious identities, with the majority of the deceased being Hindu.
“Attacking civilians is unacceptable, and those responsible must face justice through legitimate means,” he stated during a press briefing.
He emphasized the critical need for both nations to avoid military escalation, warning that such a situation could spiral out of control. “A military solution is not a solution,” he reiterated.
Guterres urged for maximum restraint and a de-escalation of tensions at this pivotal moment.
His remarks came just before the UN Security Council convened for closed discussions regarding the diplomatic strains between the two countries.
Pakistan had sought these closed-door consultations following the attack, as it currently holds a non-permanent seat on the Security Council and will assume the presidency in July.
Following the attack, India and Pakistan have engaged in a series of diplomatic exchanges, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and halting bilateral trade, alongside expelling diplomats. Pakistan has also reportedly breached the ceasefire along the Line of Control for 12 consecutive days, prompting responses from the Indian military.
In response to the escalating situation, India’s home ministry has instructed several states to conduct civil defense drills on Wednesday. These exercises will include testing air raid sirens, training civilians and students on protective measures, implementing blackout protocols, camouflaging critical sites, and practicing updated evacuation strategies in case of a “hostile event.”