United Nations: India strongly criticised Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday, accusing Islamabad of violating international law through military airstrikes on Afghan territory while reaffirming New Delhi’s commitment to Afghanistan’s humanitarian and economic development.
Addressing a UNSC meeting on the situation in Afghanistan, India’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, condemned Pakistan’s cross-border military operations, alleging that they resulted in civilian casualties during the holy month of Ramadan.
“Dressing up a massacre as a military operation does not absolve the perpetrator,” Ambassador Parvathaneni said, adding that “killing, maiming and orphaning civilians is not counter terrorism.” He described Pakistan’s actions as a “perfect example of hypocrisy.”
Referring to figures released by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), India noted that 372 civilians were killed and 397 injured during the first three months of 2026, with a significant number of casualties occurring during Ramadan. India called for strict adherence to international humanitarian law, including the principles of precaution, distinction, and proportionality, while supporting UNAMA’s demand for independent investigations into the incidents.
India also accused Pakistan of obstructing Afghanistan’s trade by denying overland transit access for Afghan exports, describing the move as “trade and transit terrorism.” According to India, such restrictions violate World Trade Organization norms, UN declarations concerning Landlocked Developing Countries, and the principles of the UN Charter.
Highlighting its own support for Afghanistan, India said it has granted tariff-free market access to Afghan products and established a dedicated air freight corridor to facilitate bilateral trade. Citing World Bank data, India stated that it currently accounts for 43 percent of Afghanistan’s total exports, underscoring its role as one of the country’s key trading partners.
India reiterated its commitment to supporting the Afghan people through humanitarian assistance, economic cooperation, and initiatives aimed at fostering regional stability and development.
Key Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Forum | United Nations Security Council (UNSC) |
| Indian Representative | Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni |
| Main Allegation | Pakistan’s military airstrikes violated international law |
| Civilian Casualties Cited | 372 killed, 397 injured (first three months of 2026) |
| Source of Data | UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) |
| India’s Trade Accusation | Called Pakistan’s actions “trade and transit terrorism” |
| India’s Support to Afghanistan | Tariff-free market access and dedicated air freight corridor |
| Afghanistan’s Exports to India | India accounts for 43% of total Afghan exports (World Bank data) |

