In a closed-door session, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sharply criticized Pakistan over the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. The UNSC members questioned Islamabad’s role and the alleged involvement of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba and its affiliate, The Resistance Front (TRF), which claimed responsibility for the attack. The meeting, convened at the request of Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, was intended to draw global attention to Kashmir — but instead, turned into a session of tough questions and international condemnation.

Despite Pakistan’s assertion that the session achieved its intended objectives, diplomatic sources reported that the meeting backfired. Several UNSC members, including Russia, the United States, and France, emphasized the need for accountability and urged both India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions. UNSC President Evangelos Sekeris reiterated that the Council supports efforts aimed at peace, while Assistant Secretary-General Mohamed Khaled Khiari underlined the necessity of dialogue and restraint. Russia’s representative expressed hope for reduced tensions but stopped short of backing Pakistan’s narrative.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the Pahalgam massacre and warned both countries against military confrontation. He described the situation as being at a “boiling point” and called for immediate steps to avoid further escalation. Guterres acknowledged the emotional trauma caused by the attack, especially as 25 Indians and one Nepalese national lost their lives. The international community has since intensified scrutiny on Pakistan, with calls for genuine counter-terrorism measures and cross-border cooperation becoming louder