The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is poised to convene an emergency session to address the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22.
The attack, which claimed the lives of at least 28 civilians, has intensified regional instability and prompted international concern.
Evangelos Sekeris, Greece’s Permanent Representative to the UN and current UNSC President, indicated that the Council is closely monitoring the situation.
He stated that a meeting to discuss the crisis could occur “sooner rather than later,” emphasizing the Council’s readiness to address the matter promptly. Sekeris noted that while no formal request for a meeting had been submitted, the evolving nature of the situation necessitates vigilant attention.
On April 22, five armed militants attacked tourists in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, resulting in 28 fatalities and over 20 injuries. The assailants, reportedly affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF)—an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba—initially claimed responsibility, citing opposition to Indian policies in Kashmir.
However, TRF later retracted its claim. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers targeted non-Muslim tourists, making the incident one of the deadliest in the region since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
In the aftermath, India implemented several measures including suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, closure of the Attari-Wagah border crossing, revocation of visas for Pakistani nationals, expulsion of Pakistani military attachés.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned from an overseas trip to chair a high-level security meeting, while Home Minister Amit Shah visited the attack site to assess the situation. The Indian government has also faced criticism for security lapses, as Baisaran Valley was opened to tourists ahead of schedule without adequate security measures.
Pakistan has denied involvement in the attack. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif dismissed India’s allegations, attributing the violence to internal dissent within India. He also suggested the possibility of the attack being a false flag operation. In response to India’s actions, Pakistan suspended visas for Indian nationals and closed its airspace to Indian aircraft.
The UNSC issued a statement condemning the attack and emphasizing that terrorism in all forms poses a significant threat to international peace and security. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also condemned the attack, calling for accountability and justice.
Several countries, including the United States, Russia, and members of the European Union, have expressed condolences and urged both nations to exercise restraint.
As tensions escalate, the international community remains vigilant. The anticipated UNSC meeting aims to address the crisis and explore avenues for de-escalation. The situation underscores the fragility of peace in the region and the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to prevent further deterioration.
