New Delhi: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sharply criticized Pakistan during a closed-door meeting over its alleged role in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local pony operator. According to sources cited by ANI, Council members directly questioned Islamabad about the suspected involvement of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a Pakistan-based terror outfit.
Pakistan, currently a non-permanent member of the UNSC, had requested the emergency consultation under Greece’s presidency in an effort to internationalize the recent escalation in tensions with India. However, the attempt largely backfired, with several Council members instead condemning the attack and demanding accountability.
In a strong rebuke, members dismissed Pakistan’s “false flag” narrative and highlighted the targeting of civilians based on religious identity as deeply concerning. The UNSC also expressed alarm over Pakistan’s recent missile tests and its recurring nuclear rhetoric, which many saw as an escalatory and destabilizing factor in the region.
During the hour-long discussion, the Council called for restraint, dialogue, and a peaceful bilateral resolution between India and Pakistan. No official statement was issued, but diplomats present confirmed a consensus around condemning terrorism and the need for justice.
Pakistan’s envoy to the UN, Asim Iftikhar, briefed reporters following the meeting, rejecting all allegations of Pakistani involvement in the Pahalgam attack. He also criticized India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a breach of international law.
Reactions from Council members reflected concern and caution. Greek Ambassador Evangelos Sekeris, the Council President for May, described the meeting as “productive and helpful.” A Russian diplomat said the discussions emphasized “de-escalation,” while UN Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Mohamed Khiari noted that the situation remained “volatile.”
Ahead of the talks, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had warned that a military confrontation could spiral out of control, calling for “maximum restraint” and reiterating the UN’s support for diplomatic efforts. He condemned the Pahalgam killings and stressed that targeting civilians is unacceptable, urging justice through lawful and credible means.
The Pahalgam attack, one of the deadliest in decades, prompted India to take a series of strong measures, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, visa cancellations for Pakistani nationals, and a downgrade in diplomatic ties.
