Pakistan and China: A UNSC Statement Watered Down?

Pahalgam Terror Attack Sparks Diplomatic Tension

The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, mostly tourists, has triggered a diplomatic row between India and Pakistan. While the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) condemned the attack and called for justice for the victims, Pakistan’s involvement in shaping the final statement has raised eyebrows.

A Softer Stance?

According to Times Now, Pakistan collaborated with China, a permanent member of the UNSC, to dilute the language of the statement compared to the one issued after the Pulwama attack in 2019. This report is also corroborated by The Times of India.

UNSC Statements: Comparing Pahalgam and Pulwama

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the UNSC urged all nations to cooperate with relevant authorities in the investigation. However, after the Pulwama attack, the council specifically called upon all states to cooperate with the Indian government. This shift in language is seen by some as a sign of Pakistan’s influence on the UNSC statement.

Pakistan’s Response and Diplomatic Fallout

Pakistan denies any involvement in the Pahalgam attack and has offered to participate in a “neutral and transparent” probe. However, India has accused Pakistan of cross-border links to the attack and has taken several punitive measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and expelling Pakistani military attaches. Pakistan has retaliated by suspending the Simla Agreement, closing its airspace to Indian airlines, and halting trade with India.

Background

The attack in Pahalgam took place on April 22, when terrorists, reportedly dressed in combat uniforms, opened fire at a meadow. The Resistance Force (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility but later retracted its statement. Tensions between India and Pakistan have been high since the attack.