UN chief ‘very concerned’ after Indian strikes, warns world cannot afford India-Pakistan war

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged maximum restraint following India’s missile strikes on Pakistani territory, warning that a military confrontation between the two countries would carry global consequences.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over India’s military operations inside Pakistan and Pakistani-administered Kashmir.

His office issued the statement on Tuesday, hours after India launched missiles into Pakistani territory under Operation Sindoor, which New Delhi claims targeted terrorist camps. Pakistan says the strikes hit civilian areas, killing at least one child and injuring others.

“The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border,” his spokesperson said. “He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries.”

Guterres warned that the world “cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.”

The United Nations has long advocated for de-escalation in the region, but tensions have reached a boiling point since the 26 April massacre in Indian-controlled Kashmir. India blamed the attack on Pakistan-backed elements—a claim Islamabad denies, insisting no evidence has been presented.

In retaliation to India’s strikes, Pakistan says its air force downed two Indian jets and launched a counter-response. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has called the Indian operation an “act of war,” and vowed a full response.

As the conflict deepens, international voices are joining the call for calm. But on both sides of the border, military activity has already intensified.

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