Introduction
The UNSC condemns Pahalgam terror attack in the strongest terms, sending a powerful message against terrorism following the tragic events of April 22, 2025, in Jammu and Kashmir. In a unanimous press statement, the 15-member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) stressed the urgent need to bring the perpetrators, sponsors, organizers, and financiers of the attack to justice. The brutal incident, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians—including 25 Indians and one Nepali tourist—has triggered global outrage and intensified calls for international cooperation to combat terrorism effectively.
UNSC’s Strong Condemnation of Pahalgam Terror Attack
In the official press release, the UNSC condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attack, calling it a “reprehensible act of terrorism.” The Council reiterated that terrorism in all its forms constitutes one of the gravest threats to international peace and security.
The UNSC members collectively emphasized:
“Those responsible for the killings must be held accountable. All states must cooperate fully with relevant authorities in accordance with international law.”
The Council expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and to the Governments of India and Nepal, while wishing a speedy recovery for the injured.
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Details of the UNSC Press Statement
- France, as the rotating President of the Council for April, issued the statement through Ambassador Jerome Bonnafont.
- The United States initiated the draft, which was then discussed and finalized by all members, including Pakistan, currently a non-permanent member.
- Since press statements require consensus, the agreement reflects rare unanimity among Council members regarding a South Asian terrorist incident.
The UNSC reaffirmed that terrorism, regardless of motivation, location, or perpetrators, remains criminal and unjustifiable.
International Cooperation Stressed
The UNSC called upon all nations to:
- Cooperate fully with the investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
- Act in compliance with international obligations, including under the Charter of the United Nations, human rights law, refugee law, and humanitarian law.
- Combat terrorism by every legal means necessary to preserve international peace and security.
The statement underscores the growing realization that global cooperation is vital to tackling cross-border terrorism threats.
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Role of the United States and France in Drafting the Statement
It is learned that the United States floated the initial draft for the press statement, demonstrating Washington’s active interest in highlighting the Pahalgam attack internationally.
France skillfully negotiated the language to ensure unanimity, ensuring that even Pakistan, a current UNSC member, agreed to the condemnation without objections.
This consensus signals robust international support for India’s call for accountability following the terror attack.
UN Secretary-General’s Response
At a separate daily briefing, Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, expressed:
“We continue to follow the situation with very deep concern.”
He condemned the attack and urged both India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation.
When asked if the Secretary-General would personally intervene by speaking with Indian and Pakistani leaders, Dujarric responded:
“I hope to have something to share with you on that soon.”
He also rejected suggestions that the situation between two nuclear-armed nations was being ignored, stating:
“We are paying very close attention to the situation between India and Pakistan.”
Conclusion
The UNSC’s condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack marks a significant moment of international solidarity against terrorism. By calling for swift justice and urging nations to cooperate under international law, the global body has reinforced the principle that terrorism must not be tolerated in any form.
As India and Pakistan navigate this volatile moment, the world’s eyes remain fixed on how both nations respond — diplomatically and on the ground — in the days ahead.