UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, urging both nations to exercise “maximum restraint” amid a series of retaliatory measures.
In a statement released Thursday night, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed that the Secretary-General is “deeply worried” about the volatile situation between the South Asian neighbors and is “closely monitoring developments.”
The UN chief called on both countries to avoid further escalation, warning that recent tit-for-tat actions have significantly heightened regional instability. “We urge both parties to exercise maximum restraint and prevent the situation from deteriorating further,” Guterres said.
The diplomatic strain intensified following a deadly gun attack in India-administered Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22, where 26 people, including 25 Indian nationals, were killed. India blamed Pakistan-backed militants for the assault and responded by canceling Pakistani visas and suspending the Indus Waters Treaty.
In retaliation, Pakistan revoked Indian visas, suspended bilateral trade, and closed its airspace to Indian aircraft. These developments have raised fresh concerns over a potential military confrontation.
The UN has reaffirmed its stance that disputes between India and Pakistan should be resolved through meaningful dialogue and mutual engagement. “We believe peaceful resolution through diplomatic efforts is both possible and essential,” said Dujarric.
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