International: The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has voiced deep concern over the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 fatalities, including a Nepali citizen. His office issued a firm condemnation of the assault, advocating for both nations to exercise utmost restraint and abstain from actions that could further exacerbate the already fragile situation.
During a press briefing, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric revealed that Guterres is monitoring the situation with close attention and apprehension. The Secretary-General reiterated his stance that all disputes between India and Pakistan should be resolved through peaceful means, specifically through direct and meaningful dialogue between the two countries.
In response to queries regarding India’s decision to suspend aspects of the Indus Waters Treaty, Dujarric refrained from direct commentary, but emphasized the UN’s consistent position: “We appeal for maximum restraint and urge all sides not to take steps that could further deteriorate the situation.”
The April 22 attack, which targeted tourists at Baisaran meadow in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir, tragically claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and left several others injured. Guterres extended his condolences to the families of the victims, asserting that “attacks against civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances.”
Following the violent incident, the Indian government implemented a series of stringent diplomatic measures against Pakistan. These actions included the immediate closure of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, the suspension of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals, a 40-hour deadline for Pakistani nationals to depart from India, and a reduction in diplomatic personnel at both countries’ High Commissions.
Furthermore, the Indian government has paused the Indus Waters Treaty, a significant development considering the treaty’s crucial role in managing water-sharing between the two nations since its inception in 1960. This treaty, brokered by the World Bank, is often cited as a rare example of sustained cooperation amidst decades of conflict, allocating the use of three western rivers to Pakistan and three eastern rivers to India, with provisions for limited usage by the other side.
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