Jaishankar firmly calls out Pakistan's persistent cross-border terrorism tactics
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar strongly criticized Pakistan during the 81st United Nations General Assembly, branding the neighboring country a "serial practitioner of terrorism." Responding directly to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's earlier remarks regarding military actions, India's top diplomat made it clear that seeking immunity for terror activities will not be tolerated. He emphasized India's absolute right to defend itself against violent cross-border incursions.
Zero tolerance for cross-border attacks
Tensions continue between the two nations following the tragic April 2025 Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives. India responded to that tragedy with Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure across the border. Addressing the assembly in New York, Jaishankar reiterated that friendship and goodwill cannot survive alongside persistent terror tactics. He demanded that governments facilitating these violent networks face strict accountability and called for the complete dismantling of regional terror financing structures.
Global south challenges and West Asia
Beyond regional security, India voiced strong support for a negotiated two-state solution to resolve the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. Jaishankar urged all involved parties to de-escalate tensions and protect civilian lives while ensuring secure international trade routes. Shifting focus to developing nations, he warned of a growing "4F crisis" involving severe shortages in food, fuel, fertiliser, and finance. The combined impact of a super El Nino and global supply disruptions is actively threatening worldwide food security. Furthermore, progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals remains under severe pressure due to unfair market restrictions. He also criticized the increasing weaponization of artificial intelligence and global supply chains, noting that such extreme competition severely harms developing economies. To combat these mounting issues, he urged the international community to reform global institutions so they genuinely respond to the pressing needs of the developing world.
Image courtesy: X/@DrSJaishankar
