UN PICTURE VIA PAK. MISSION
Special Correspondent
UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has strongly condemned recent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, warning that such actions could further escalate tensions in the already volatile region.
Addressing an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council, Pakistan’s permanent representative Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad called for immediate de-escalation and expressed full support for Iran’s right to self-defense.
The emergency meeting was convened amid rising concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East. The session was prompted by international outrage following the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, which several member states argued were in violation of international law.
During the meeting, Russia, China, and Pakistan jointly submitted a resolution calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, adherence to international legal frameworks, and immediate return to the negotiating table to seek a peaceful diplomatic solution.
Speaking at the session, Pakistani Ambassador Asim Iftikhar said: “We thank the Council for convening this urgent session. Pakistan unequivocally condemns the attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities. We reaffirm our support for Iran’s right to self-defense and stress the need for a peaceful resolution through dialogue in line with the UN Charter.”
He added that previous warnings by Council members about rising tensions had gone unheeded and urged all sides to prioritize diplomacy.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, addressing the Council, warned: “The region cannot afford more devastation. All parties must cease hostilities immediately. The United Nations stands ready to support any effort towards a peaceful resolution, including serious negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.”
IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi reported visible damage at Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility following the U.S. strike. “Large craters have been observed. This kind of military action risks not only physical destruction but also derailing prospects for nuclear diplomacy.”
China’s UN envoy echoed calls for de-escalation: “All parties, particularly Israel, must immediately agree to a ceasefire. Diplomacy remains the only viable path to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue.”
