UN chief Antonio Guterres on Monday called on India and Pakistan to use “maximum restraint,” noting that “a military solution is no solution” as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate.
Tensions between nuclear adversaries are “at their highest in years,” said Guterres and presented good offices to the two nations, stating that the UN is willing to assist any endeavor that would contribute to de-escalation. The Secretary-General emphasized that peaceful dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable options in a situation as volatile as this one.
“Relations have reached a boiling point,” AFP quoted Guterres as saying, warning it was “essential … to avoid a military confrontation that could easily spin out of control… military solution is no solution. Now is the time for maximum restraint and stepping back from the brink.” His message was a clear indication of how seriously the international community views the current developments in South Asia, especially given the history of conflict between India and Pakistan.
UN Chief’s Condemnation of Pahalgam Attack and Its Aftermath
Guterres again denounced the attack on Pahalgam which killed 26 people including one Nepali national and injured many more. The United Nations expressed condolences to the victims’ families and condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The attack has sparked widespread outrage and a renewed call for stringent security and counter-terrorism measures in the region.
The attack occurred when militants armed with weapons fired shots in Baisaran Valley of the popular tourist destination of Jammu and Kashmir, commonly known as “Mini Switzerland” for its natural beauty. It was a place meant for peace and leisure, but turned into a site of horror that shocked the nation.
India has since vowed to chase and prosecute all culprits of the attack. The Indian government has ramped up intelligence efforts and ordered heightened security in the Kashmir region.
Diplomatic Fallout Between India and Pakistan
New Delhi accused Islamabad of carrying out the fatal assault, which has initiated a series of acerbic warnings and mutual diplomatic measures between the two nations. Both sides have recalled diplomats and issued public condemnations.
Pakistan denied any role and demanded an impartial investigation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted his armed forces “complete operational freedom” to react and Islamabad has threatened it will retaliate against any aggression.
