The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) recently held a closed-door meeting to discuss the rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The meeting was reportedly focused on efforts to de-escalate the situation between the two countries. Following the session, Pakistan’s envoy to the UN, Asim Iftikhar, addressed the media and stated, “The objective we aimed to achieve through this UNSC meeting has been fulfilled.” He also revealed that Pakistan brought up the Jammu and Kashmir issue during the discussion.
The meeting was requested urgently by Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack, amid concerns of a possible military response from India. Pakistan sought the UNSC’s intervention to urge India to exercise restraint. However, the meeting was not held in the official chamber but in the consultation room of the Council. According to Iftikhar, the primary purpose was to “help reduce rising tensions in South Asia.”
Jammu and Kashmir Issue Raised at the UNSC
Asim Iftikhar mentioned that several Council members recognized the need to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute peacefully, in line with UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. He added, “It was clearly acknowledged that regional stability cannot be maintained unilaterally. Principled diplomacy, engagement, and adherence to international law are essential.”
Further Remarks by Pakistan’s UN Envoy
While the UNSC has not released an official statement about the meeting, Pakistani media outlet Dawn reported that Iftikhar expressed serious concerns about India’s recent actions. He pointed to India’s “unilateral measures,” including actions taken on April 23, military build-up, and provocative statements, as troubling developments.
Also Read- India Ends Trade with Pakistan, Bans All Imports from Neighbouring Country
Shehbaz Sharif Spoke Twice with the UN Chief
After the Pahalgam attack on April 22, India announced five strategic steps on April 23, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. This move could significantly affect Pakistan, leading to water shortages and economic harm. In response, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appealed to the UN for intervention and has spoken twice with UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
During these calls, he accused India of attempting to politicize international financial institutions to damage Pakistan’s economic interests. The UN chief reportedly assured PM Sharif that diplomatic efforts are ongoing.