New Delhi [India]: Amid ongoing global concern following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, former Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale, has emphasized that India must act firmly in its national interest, irrespective of international reactions—including those from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Bambawale’s remarks come in the wake of closed-door UNSC consultations on the Kashmir issue, initiated at Pakistan’s request. Speaking to ANI, he made clear that while diplomatic awareness of international sentiment is important, it should not dictate India’s security or policy decisions.
“India should do whatever it wants to do and needs to do in its own national interest,” Bambawale stated. “We should not place too much importance on what the UNSC and its members are saying or not saying. We need them on our side, but our actions must be based on national priorities.”
He acknowledged that while the international community has urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, India must stay focused on its sovereign objectives.
“The global community is condemning the terror attack and calling for restraint, but India must act decisively without being swayed by external voices,” he added.
UNSC Rejects Pakistan’s Narrative
According to sources in New York, UNSC members pushed back against Pakistan’s claims during the consultations. Pakistan attempted to float a “false flag” narrative, but faced pointed questions regarding the involvement of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a banned terror outfit with deep-rooted ties to Pakistan.
“There was no support for Pakistan’s narrative. Instead, there was broad condemnation of the Pahalgam attack and calls for accountability,” the sources told ANI.
Some UNSC members reportedly raised concerns about the targeting of civilians based on religious identity, indicating increasing international scrutiny of Pakistan’s internal handling of terror groups.
Despite the meeting, the UNSC did not issue an official statement, highlighting the limited traction gained by Pakistan’s request.
UN Chief Urges Restraint and Dialogue
Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over rising tensions between India and Pakistan, warning that relations had reached a “boiling point.”
“Tensions between India and Pakistan are at their highest in years,” Guterres said, urging both nations to exercise maximum restraint and avoid a military confrontation that could spiral out of control.
“Targeting civilians is unacceptable. Those responsible must be brought to justice. A military solution is no solution. The UN stands ready to support any initiative promoting de-escalation diplomacy and a renewed commitment to peace,” he added.
Guterres condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and extended condolences to the victims’ families, emphasizing that the UN would remain engaged in outreach with both nations to prevent further escalation.