UNITED NATIONS – Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced deep concern over escalating military activity along the Line of Control and the international border between India and Pakistan, calling on both nations to exercise maximum restraint and avoid further provocation.
In a statement released by his spokesperson on Tuesday, Guterres emphasized that “the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan,” amid rising tensions that he described as the highest in years.
The appeal follows reports of intensified Indian military operations across contested areas in Jammu and Kashmir. Guterres reiterated that a military solution is not viable and reaffirmed the United Nations’ readiness to use his good offices to facilitate dialogue and diplomatic engagement between the two South Asian rivals.
Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, the UN chief strongly condemned the 22 April terror attack in the Pahalgam area of Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of at least 26 civilians and left many more injured.
“Targeting civilians is unacceptable – and those responsible must be brought to justice through credible and lawful means,” Guterres stated, underscoring the need for accountability and restraint on all sides.
The Secretary-General’s remarks come at a critical time as tensions between India and Pakistan threaten to spill over into broader conflict, raising alarm within the international community about the potential for regional destabilization.