Pakistan Urges UN to Intervene as Israeli Strikes on Iran Escalate Tensions
Pakistan has called on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to take immediate action to halt Israeli airstrikes on Iran, warning that continued aggression threatens to plunge the region into further instability. Speaking during an emergency UNSC session convened by Guyana and supported by several member states, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, delivered a firm appeal for diplomacy and de-escalation.
Ambassador Asim condemned the Israeli attacks, which began on June 13, targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites. “These strikes violate Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said, describing them as unjustified and illegitimate acts of aggression. He expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Iranian people and extended condolences for the loss of life resulting from the air raids.
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Labeling the situation as a “pivotal moment,” the envoy urged the UNSC to fulfill its responsibility in safeguarding international peace and security. “Military means and coercion cannot bring about a lasting settlement,” he said, calling instead for “dialogue and diplomacy in full adherence to the UN Charter and international law.”
The Pakistani envoy emphasized that Israel’s actions are especially dangerous given ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at resolving concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme. “Unlawful Israeli strikes risk undermining a path to peaceful negotiations,” he cautioned, referencing the United States’ expressed willingness to keep diplomatic channels open.
Ambassador Asim also highlighted Israel’s broader pattern of violations across the region, including its ongoing offensive in Gaza and recurring strikes in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. He said these actions have compounded tensions and led to a growing humanitarian toll.
He urged the Security Council to take four immediate steps:
- Condemn and categorically reject Israel’s attacks on Iran since June 13.
- Facilitate de-escalation and a comprehensive ceasefire before the situation deteriorates further.
- Denounce the targeting of nuclear facilities safeguarded by the IAEA, which contravenes international norms and agreements.
- Promote a peaceful resolution through sustained diplomatic efforts.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, opening the debate, echoed these concerns, calling for “immediate de-escalation leading to a ceasefire.”
The Security Council session comes as speculation grows over possible U.S. involvement in the conflict. President Donald Trump said Thursday he would decide within two weeks whether to authorize military action against Iran, specifically targeting its nuclear enrichment facilities.
Meanwhile, Russia and China—both permanent UNSC members—joined Pakistan in condemning the Israeli strikes and called for restraint and renewed dialogue.
Ambassador Asim concluded his remarks by urging the Council to act decisively. “Diplomacy must be given a chance,” he said, warning that failure to act could destabilize not just the Middle East, but the global order.
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