UNSC Convenes Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions
In response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) convened closed-door consultations on May 5, 2025. The meeting, requested by Pakistan, aimed to address the deteriorating security situation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
UNSC India-Pakistan Consultations
The 15-member UNSC met in a consultation room adjacent to its main chamber. Greece, holding the Council presidency for May, facilitated the session. Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Mohamed Khiari briefed members on the situation. The meeting concluded without any formal statement or resolution, reflecting the complexities surrounding the issue.
Pahalgam Attack and Aftermath
The Pahalgam terror attack resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including a Nepali citizen. India has accused Pakistan of supporting the perpetrators, a claim Islamabad denies. In response to the attack, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and expelled Pakistani diplomats. Pakistan, in turn, closed its airspace to Indian aircraft and suspended visas for Indian nationals.
International Reactions
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions, stating that relations between India and Pakistan were “at their highest in years.” He condemned the Pahalgam attack and urged both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in Islamabad for a one-day visit to discuss the situation and is expected to visit Delhi later this week. Russia has also called for diplomatic efforts to resolve the tensions, emphasizing the importance of restraint on both sides.
Ground Situation
Cross-border firing has continued along the Line of Control (LoC) for the 12th consecutive night, with both sides accusing each other of ceasefire violations. India has launched a massive crackdown in Kashmir, detaining over 2,000 individuals and demolishing homes of suspected militants. Pakistan has warned of a comprehensive retaliation if India undertakes any military action.
