ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan has strongly condemned Israel’s recent military strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, labeling them “unjustified and illegitimate” during an emergency session of the UN Security Council convened on Friday.
Speaking on behalf of Pakistan, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, warned that the escalation posed a “grave danger and a serious threat” to regional and global peace.
“There is no justification for this aggression. We reaffirm our unwavering solidarity with the government and people of Iran,” Ambassador Asim stated.
The meeting, requested by Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, was supported by Pakistan, China, and Russia. It was called in response to what Iran described as Israel “crossing every red line,” and emphasized the need for international accountability.
UN Officials Warn of Worsening Regional Instability
During the session, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, *Rosemary DiCarlo*, cautioned against further escalation, particularly at a time when diplomatic momentum was building between the U.S. and Iran.
“I reaffirm the Secretary-General’s condemnation of any military escalation in the Middle East,” DiCarlo told Council members. “All parties must exercise maximum restraint and remain committed to diplomacy.”
She revealed that planned U.S.-Iranian nuclear talks in Oman had been postponed due to the recent attacks, undermining the prospects for dialogue.
IAEA Raises Alarm Over Nuclear Safety Risks
Addressing the Council, *IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi* said that his agency was in close contact with Iran’s nuclear regulatory authority to assess the status of impacted facilities.
“Nuclear sites must never be targeted—under any circumstances,” Grossi said. “Such attacks have serious implications for nuclear safety and security, as well as for international peace.”
He emphasized that diplomacy remains the only viable path to resolving nuclear issues and offered the IAEA’s role as a neutral platform for technical dialogue.
“The only sustainable path forward is one grounded in dialogue and diplomacy,” Grossi concluded, adding that he is prepared to travel to the region to support efforts on non-proliferation and transparency.
Pakistan Urges Respect for International Law
Ambassador Asim called on the UN Security Council to uphold international law and ensure an immediate halt to hostilities. He reiterated Pakistan’s position that dialogue—not force—must be the basis for resolving disputes in the Middle East.
“We must reject unilateral aggression and reaffirm our collective commitment to peace and security,” he said.
As tensions rise, the Council continues to deliberate on steps to prevent further escalation, with several members urging renewed diplomatic engagement.
