The United Nations Security Council has urged India-Pakistan talks on Kashmir to ease tensions and prevent military escalation following a recent deadly attack. The attack, which targeted Hindu tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, has triggered a rapid deterioration in relations between the two nuclear-armed countries.
Attack Triggers Regional Crisis
On April 22, gunmen opened fire on a group of Hindu pilgrims, killing 26. India quickly blamed Pakistan for supporting the attackers, claiming two of them were Pakistani nationals. Pakistan denied the allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated.
Since the attack, both countries have taken retaliatory steps. Trade has been suspended, airspace partially closed, and embassy staff reduced. Border deployments have increased, raising fears of a larger confrontation.
UN and International Voices Call for Restraint
The UN Security Council met on Monday in New York to discuss the rising tensions. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said the Council was briefed on intelligence reports suggesting a potential Indian strike. Council members emphasized diplomacy and restraint.
UN Secretary General António Guterres also called for de-escalation. “This is a time for maximum restraint and dialogue,” he said. “Military confrontation can quickly spin out of control.”
India’s Cautious Silence, Global Reactions
India has not commented publicly on the meeting. However, an Indian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted that some Council members viewed Pakistan’s missile tests and nuclear rhetoric as dangerous. The official added that Pakistan’s effort to internationalize the Kashmir issue received little support.
Instead, most members reportedly advised Islamabad to seek resolution through bilateral talks with New Delhi.
Economic Concerns Add Pressure
The standoff could have lasting economic consequences. Credit agency Moody warned that prolonged tension may damage Pakistan’s fragile economy and delay India’s fiscal recovery. Both countries face rising defense costs and diplomatic fallout.
Given Kashmir’s historic volatility, the situation demands urgent attention. The call for India-Pakistan talks on Kashmir is a timely reminder that diplomacy, not hostility, is the only path to long-term peace.
