The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) hosted a late-night meeting on Monday to discuss Afghanistan’s humanitarian, political, security, and economic situation. UNAMA acting head Georgette Gagnon provided a detailed briefing during the session.
A major topic of discussion was the ongoing conflict and tense relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Delegates expressed concern over the escalation of military actions and civilian casualties.
The Indian representative, Parataneni Harish, condemned Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghan territory, calling them clear violations of international law, the UN Charter, and state sovereignty. He criticized Islamabad’s double standards, highlighting that while Pakistan speaks of Islamic unity and respect for international norms, it simultaneously conducted airstrikes on civilians during Ramadan. According to Harish, by March 6, 185 innocent Afghans had been killed, with 55% being women and children.
The Russian delegate, Vassily Nebenzia, expressed concern over the escalating violence and emphasized the importance of returning to a political and diplomatic track, offering Russia’s support and assistance to both countries.
The UK representative, Han Bronis Smith, also voiced deep concern about the intensifying crisis and called for reduction of tensions and the start of dialogue and mediation.
China urged both sides to exercise restraint and patience, accelerate efforts for a ceasefire, and resolve differences through negotiation. China stressed that the recent clashes had caused significant casualties on both sides and reaffirmed its active mediation role in improving relations and stabilizing the situation.
Meanwhile, former Afghan officials at the UNSC meeting urged Pakistan to cease attacks on civilian areas and infrastructure, stating that such actions violate Afghanistan’s territorial integrity, the UN Charter, and international law.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman II, in an interview with Sky News, called on Afghanistan and Pakistan to halt the conflict, engage in dialogue, and resolve disputes peacefully, warning that continued hostilities could pose serious risks for regional stability.
