UN urges restraint amid rising India-Pakistan tensions

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint amid escalating tensions following the recent deadly attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam.

In a statement issued through his spokesperson, the UN chief expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation and urged both sides to avoid further provocative actions.

The Secretary-General stressed that the retaliatory steps taken by both countries have dangerously heightened tensions. He reiterated the UN’s longstanding position that all issues between India and Pakistan must be resolved peacefully through dialogue.

The appeal follows a deadly attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir that left 26 people dead. In response, India cancelled Pakistani visas, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, and shut the main land crossing with Pakistan.

Pakistan responded with its own countermeasures, including the suspension of visas for Indian citizens, a halt to bilateral trade, and the closure of its airspace to Indian aircraft.

Both countries have a long-standing dispute over Kashmir and have fought multiple wars over the region. The UN has consistently urged peaceful resolution through meaningful engagement.