May 5, 2025 | Islamabad – Amid soaring tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan, international efforts are intensifying to prevent a military escalation following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir. The attack claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, and has sparked a diplomatic standoff, with both nations trading accusations.
India has blamed Pakistan for the assault, citing alleged cross-border links without presenting concrete evidence. Pakistan has firmly rejected the allegations and called for an impartial international investigation. Islamabad claims the attack is a “false flag operation” designed to deflect attention from India’s internal challenges and upcoming elections.
Iran, Russia Lead Mediation Efforts
In a major diplomatic push, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Monday and met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Army Chief General Asim Munir, and Deputy PM Ishaq Dar. Iran, which maintains close ties with both countries, is advocating restraint and dialogue. Araghchi is expected to visit New Delhi later this week in a bid to ease tensions from both ends.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a call with FM Ishaq Dar, offering Moscow’s support in facilitating a peaceful resolution. Russia stressed the importance of diplomacy and floated the idea of an international investigation to clarify facts surrounding the Kashmir incident.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) also urged both nations to engage through diplomatic channels rather than military means.
Pakistan Launches Diplomatic Campaign at UN
Pakistan is preparing to formally brief the UN Security Council (UNSC) on what it describes as India’s “unilateral and provocative actions.” Deputy PM Dar has instructed Pakistan’s envoy to the UN to push for an emergency session, particularly spotlighting India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) — a move Islamabad says breaches international law.
Prime Minister Sharif, in discussions with global leaders including Malaysia and China, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace but warned that India’s actions were distracting the country from critical counterterrorism operations on its western front.
China and International Media Back Pakistan’s Stance
China has reiterated its support for Pakistan, describing the countries as “iron brothers.” During a meeting in Islamabad, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reaffirmed Beijing’s solidarity and backed Pakistan’s call for a neutral probe into the Pahalgam attack.
To counter Indian claims of terrorist hideouts across the Line of Control (LoC), Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar led international journalists — including CNN’s Nic Robertson — to alleged sites. The media found no evidence of militant activity. “India’s narrative has failed miserably,” said Tarar, warning against any Indian “misadventure.”
ADB and Moody’s Warn of Economic Fallout
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and credit agency Moody’s have voiced concern over the growing crisis. ADB President Masato Kanda, speaking in Milan, warned that South Asia’s economic growth could be severely impacted by prolonged instability. He also announced a $26 billion expansion to the ADB’s food security program, emphasizing the need for regional cooperation.
Moody’s, meanwhile, cautioned that Pakistan’s fiscal recovery could be derailed if tensions continue to escalate. The agency noted that foreign reserves remain vulnerable, and external financing could be constrained amid uncertainty.
Pakistan Conducts Missile Test Amid Security Alert
In a show of readiness, Pakistan conducted a missile test over the weekend, underscoring its military preparedness in the face of growing hostility. The Pakistan Army also responded to reported unprovoked Indian firing along the LoC in multiple sectors, including Neelum and Haji Pir, with security forces remaining on high alert.
