United Nations Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, responding to inquiries, emphasised the Secretary-General’s condemnation of the attack. In a press statement issued on 25 April, Security Council members expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday called for “maximum restraint” from India and Pakistan, warning that escalating tensions over a recent deadly terror attack in Kashmir risk spiralling into outright military confrontation.
Addressing journalists outside the Security Council at UN Headquarters in New York, Guterres expressed deep concern over deteriorating relations between the two South Asian neighbours, saying they had reached “their highest in years.”
He reiterated his condemnation of the 22 April terror attack in the Pahalgam area of Jammu and Kashmir, which killed at least 26 civilians and injured many more.
“Targeting civilians is unacceptable – and those responsible must be brought to justice through credible and lawful means,” Guterres said.
“It is also essential – especially at this critical hour – to avoid a military confrontation that could easily spin out of control.”
India and Pakistan both administer parts of Kashmir but claim the territory in full.
The Security Council met behind closed doors later on Monday to discuss the rising tensions between the two nations.
Security Council Meets
The United Nations Security Council has called for restraint and diplomacy between India and Pakistan following a surge in tensions over a deadly attack in disputed Kashmir. Pakistan’s foreign ministry said on Tuesday that Council members were briefed on intelligence pointing to an “imminent threat” of Indian military action. The Council urged both sides to engage in dialogue and avoid escalation.
The April 22 attack, which killed 26 Hindu tourists, has reignited hostilities between the nuclear-armed neighbours. India blamed Pakistan, identifying two of the suspected attackers as Pakistani nationals. Pakistan denied involvement but warned it would defend itself if attacked. In the wake of the attack, both countries have heightened their defences: Pakistan conducted two missile tests in three days, while India launched civil defence drills across several states.
Pakistan, currently a non-permanent member of the Security Council, requested the briefing. India, though not a Council member, held discussions with members beforehand. An Indian source claimed many expressed concern over Pakistan’s missile tests and attempts to internationalise the issue. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of the danger of military escalation, calling for “maximum restraint.” The two nations have already suspended trade, reduced diplomatic ties, and closed airspace amid the ongoing crisis.
UN ready to help de-escalate
Guterres offered his good offices to both governments to help defuse tensions and promote diplomacy, stressing that “a military solution is no solution.”
“Now is the time for maximum restraint and stepping back from the brink,” he said.
Guterres also praised both countries for their long-standing contributions to UN peacekeeping operations and expressed hope that their shared history of cooperation could form the basis for renewed dialogue.
“The United Nations stands ready to support any initiative that promotes de-escalation, diplomacy, and a renewed commitment to peace,” he said.
Earlier on 22 April, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, responding to inquiries, emphasised the Secretary-General’s condemnation of the attack. In a press statement issued on 25 April, Security Council members expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the Governments of India and Nepal.
