UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced deep concern over the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Guterres offered the UN’s support for any effort—mutually acceptable to both nations—that promotes de-escalation and the resumption of dialogue.
“The Secretary-General remains deeply troubled by the situation between India and Pakistan and strongly urges both sides to exercise maximum restraint and avoid further escalation,” the statement read.
Guterres reaffirmed his conviction that even the most challenging disputes can be resolved peacefully through meaningful and constructive dialogue, emphasizing his readiness to assist in facilitating such efforts.
The United Nations also clarified that while the UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) does not operate in the area where the Pahalgam incident occurred, it continues to monitor ceasefire-related developments along the Line of Control under its longstanding mandate.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of terrorism in all forms, stating that Islamabad remains open to participation in a neutral, transparent, and credible investigation into the Pahalgam incident.
He criticized India’s immediate blame directed at Pakistan without evidence, calling it part of a “perpetual blame game” that needs to end. “On our eastern border, the neighbour continues to exploit tragedies through baseless allegations, without credible or verifiable proof,” Sharif said.
Speaking at the Pakistan Military Academy‘s passing out parade, the prime minister also reaffirmed that water is a vital national interest for Pakistan’s 240 million people. “Let there be no doubt that its availability will be safeguarded under all circumstances,” he asserted.
