In the Security Council Annual Debate on the Protection of Civilians, Counsellor Saima Saleem delivered Pakistan's Right of Reply in response to remarks by the Indian representative. The Pakistani statement portrays India as exporting terrorism abroad, occupying populations by force, persecuting minorities at home, weaponizing water, and engaging in regional aggression, while lecturing others on civilian protection. It contrasts Pakistan’s portrayal of itself as a proponent of peace, dialogue, and adherence to international law with what it calls India's ‘terrorism, occupation, repression and disregard for international law.’ The article highlights the contested nature of such claims, the evidentiary standards typically invoked in Security Council debates, and the legal frameworks that govern state responsibility and civilian protection, including customary international law and relevant treaties. It notes Pakistan's emphasis on the need for accountability, adherence to the Indus Waters Treaty framework, and resolution through peaceful means, while acknowledging India's security concerns and its own legal-constitutional complexities. In my view, while both sides face serious security and human-rights challenges, the credibility of such disputes rests on verifiable evidence, independent investigations, and a commitment to protecting civilians above nationalist rhetoric. A constructive path forward would involve transparent fact-finding, urgent protection of minority communities on both sides, de-escalation of rhetoric, and sustained diplomatic engagement to uphold international law and regional stability.
Source: Statement from @PakistanUN_NY
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Published: May 20, 2026, 6:59 pm
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