Pakistan Closely Monitoring Tensions with India, Ready to Seek UNSC Meeting
UNITED NATIONS:
Pakistan is closely tracking the developments stemming from India’s aggressive actions following last week’s attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir. The country will request a UN Security Council (UNSC) session when it deems appropriate, said Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad on Friday.
Addressing the media at the UN Headquarters in New York, Ambassador Ahmad emphasized the seriousness of the situation, warning that it threatens regional and global peace. “It’s clear that an incident has occurred, but the evolving situation poses a real danger. The Security Council has a mandate, and any member, including Pakistan, has the right to call a meeting,” he stated.
This press conference was one of several by Pakistan’s permanent representative to update the international community on the escalating situation and Pakistan’s perspective. “We’ve already discussed this with the Council’s presidencies of France and Greece. We are observing the situation and reserve the right to request a meeting when necessary,” he explained.
The recent tensions stem from the attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people on April 22. On Thursday, Greece, which holds the UNSC presidency for May, said that the Council is expected to meet soon to discuss the situation between India and Pakistan. Greek Ambassador Evangelos Sekeris indicated that the meeting could help de-escalate tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations.
Ambassador Asim also welcomed UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ offer to mediate between India and Pakistan to reduce tensions. However, India has yet to respond to Guterres’ proposal, which is contingent on the acceptance of both countries.
In response to allegations of Pakistani involvement in terrorism, Asim clarified that India’s accusations were “misrepresented.” He reaffirmed that Pakistan is a victim of terrorism, adding that India has been involved in terror acts not only against Pakistan but also in North America.
Pakistan, Asim stated, does not seek escalation but is ready to defend its sovereignty if necessary. He reiterated that Pakistan rejects any connection to the Pahalgam incident, condemning terrorism in all forms. Pakistan expressed its condolences for the victims of the attack and reiterated its stance as a victim of terrorism itself.
Regarding India’s unilateral actions, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Asim stressed the gravity of the decision. He warned that any disruption to the natural flow of water from the Indus River would be considered an “Act of War.” Pakistan has made it clear that such actions undermine regional stability and could lead to serious global repercussions over shared water resources.
Pakistan is also deeply concerned about the ongoing human rights violations in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), including arbitrary detentions and collective punishment against innocent Kashmiri civilians.
