Synopsis
On April 24, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged India and Pakistan to exhibit maximum restraint to prevent further escalation after a terrorist attack in Kashmir. His spokesperson emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of disputes and condemned the violence that led to several fatalities.Key Takeaways
- Antonio Guterres calls for maximum restraint from India and Pakistan.
- The recent attack in Kashmir resulted in at least 26 deaths.
- Lashkar-e-Toiba has claimed responsibility for the attack.
- India and Pakistan have taken reciprocal diplomatic actions.
- World leaders have expressed condolences and support for India.
United Nations, April 24 (NationPress) The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, urges both India and Pakistan to practice maximum restraint in order to avert further escalation of the already tense atmosphere in the region following a terrorist incident in Kashmir, as stated by his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Thursday.
"We earnestly appeal to the governments of Pakistan and India to exercise maximum restraint and to ensure that the recent events do not lead to further deterioration," he remarked, reiterating the condemnation of the terrorist attack that resulted in at least 26 fatalities in Pahalgam on Tuesday.
"Our stance regarding the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir has been unequivocal," he added.
He emphasized, "We believe that any disputes between Pakistan and India can and should be resolved peacefully through constructive mutual dialogue."
A front organization of the internationally banned terrorist group Lashkar-e-Toiba has claimed responsibility for the assault that primarily targeted tourists.
In response, India took measures against Pakistan, including expelling diplomats, canceling certain visas for each other's nationals, and halting trade, with Islamabad retaliating similarly.
When asked about India's suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, Dujarric stated, "This falls under our appeal for maximum restraint, urging both sides not to take actions that could worsen the situation or heighten tensions in such a sensitive area."
He mentioned that Guterres has not been in direct communication with the leaders of India and Pakistan since the attack.
US President Donald Trump expressed his support for India against terrorism via X, stating: "The US stands strong with India. Prime Minister Modi and the people of India have our full support and deepest sympathies."
French President Emmanuel Macron also took to X to condemn the attack, stating: "A heinous terrorist attack has struck India. We share in the profound sorrow of the victims' families and extend my heartfelt condolences."
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer remarked: "The horrific terrorist attack in Kashmir is utterly devastating."
Qatar's Foreign Ministry released a statement expressing their strong condemnation and condolences to the victims' families and the government of India.
