New Delhi, May 6:
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) strongly criticized Pakistan during a closed-door session over its alleged links to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local pony ride operator. The UNSC expressed serious concern over the suspected involvement of the Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba in the incident.
Citing sources, news agency ANI reported that the UNSC members rejected Pakistan’s attempts to deflect blame and internationalize the issue. Instead, they questioned Islamabad’s ongoing support for militant groups and raised alarm over its recent missile tests and aggressive nuclear rhetoric, which they deemed as destabilizing actions.
The session was convened at Pakistan’s request under the Greek presidency of the UNSC. However, instead of gaining support, Islamabad faced tough questions from council members, including the permanent five — the US, UK, France, Russia, and China — and non-permanent members such as Algeria, Denmark, South Korea, and Slovenia.
During the hour-long discussions, members unanimously condemned the terror strike, calling for accountability and justice. The attack, which appeared to target civilians based on their religious identity, was labeled a grave violation of international norms. The UNSC also dismissed Pakistan’s “false flag” narrative, urging it to resolve its issues with India through bilateral dialogue.
Following the session, Pakistani envoy Asim Iftikhar denied all allegations linking Pakistan to the attack and criticized India for suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a breach of international law. He did not acknowledge any role played by terror outfits operating from Pakistani territory.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres had earlier condemned the Pahalgam attack and emphasized the need for restraint from both nations. “There is no military solution to this conflict,” he said, urging both countries to avoid escalation.
Meanwhile, the Greek envoy and UNSC President for May, Evangelos Sekeris, described the consultation as “productive and helpful.” A Russian diplomat expressed hope for de-escalation, while Tunisian diplomat Khaled Mohamed Khiari called the situation “volatile,” stressing the importance of peaceful resolution.
The brutal attack in Pahalgam, one of the deadliest in recent memory, has heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. In response, India not only suspended the Indus Waters Treaty but also revoked visas of Pakistani nationals residing in the country.
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