UNSC Grills Pakistan Over Pahalgam Terror Attack, Demands Clarity on Lashkar-e-Taiba’s Role

New York: In a closed-door meeting held at the United Nations headquarters, the UN Security Council (UNSC) put Pakistan under sharp scrutiny over the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The massacre, which claimed the lives of innocent tourists, has drawn global condemnation and renewed focus on Pakistan-based terror outfits — particularly Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

According to diplomatic sources, UNSC members — including all five permanent and ten non-permanent members — posed “tough and pointed” questions to Pakistan about the attack’s origins and the possible involvement of LeT, a group known for its cross-border militant activities.

Pakistan’s ‘False Flag’ Narrative Dismissed

Attempts by Islamabad to brand the Pahalgam terror strike as a “false flag operation” by India were firmly rejected by most Council members. Instead, the emphasis remained on seeking credible answers about the potential involvement of LeT, which operates from Pakistani soil.

“There is a clear expectation that Pakistan must ensure accountability,” said one diplomat present in the informal session. “The UNSC will not accept baseless narratives as a shield against terrorism.”

UN Urges Bilateral Resolution

UN Secretary-General António Guterres also issued a statement urging both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, warning that continued military confrontation could spiral out of control. The UNSC echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of bilateral dialogue to resolve long-standing disputes.

However, Pakistan’s efforts to internationalize the Kashmir issue appeared to have little impact, with Council members reiterating that such matters must be resolved directly between the two nations.

Concerns Over Religious Targeting and Regional Stability

Several UNSC members expressed concern that the Pahalgam attack seemed to target tourists based on their religious identity, labeling it as a “deeply disturbing trend” in the region’s security landscape.

Moreover, the discussion touched on Pakistan’s recent ballistic missile tests and provocative nuclear rhetoric, which members described as escalatory and detrimental to regional peace.

Lashkar-e-Taiba Under Scanner Again

While the investigation is still ongoing, global pressure is mounting on Pakistan to act decisively against terror groups operating within its borders. Lashkar-e-Taiba, banned by the UN and designated a terror organization by several countries, remains at the center of suspicion.

Indian officials have consistently maintained that LeT was behind the Pahalgam attack, citing intercepted communications and other intelligence inputs.

What Lies Ahead?

As the international community demands accountability, all eyes are now on how Pakistan responds to the UNSC’s concerns. With mounting evidence and diplomatic pressure, Islamabad may soon have to choose between continuing to deny and deflect or finally cracking down on homegrown terror.

For the families of the victims and the people of Jammu and Kashmir, justice is not just overdue — it is essential for lasting peace.