RIZWAN SAEED SHEIKH
Special Correspondent
NEW YORK: Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, has stated in an interview with Turkish media that despite an alleged airstrike by India Pakistan has not yet exercised its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.
He emphasized that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state committed to peace, but will not compromise on its sovereignty and defense.
Ambassador Asim revealed that on the night of May 6 and 7, India launched an attack on Pakistan, after which all actions taken by Pakistan were defensive in nature. He noted that the Kashmir region remains a nuclear flashpoint, and a British newspaper has also described it as a geopolitical fault line.
The Pakistani envoy made it clear that his government is open to dialogue on all issues, provided that any investigation into the incident is neutral, transparent, and credible. He criticized India for acting as “judge and jury” by making accusations and unilaterally deciding the outcome, which, he said, violates international norms.
“We are calling for de-escalation and a way forward,” he said, “but unfortunately, the response from our neighbor has not been positive.”
Ambassador Asim warned the international community that if the current situation continues unchecked, it could spiral into a dangerous crisis. He stressed the urgent need for serious and coordinated diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.
