On September 27, India revealed that Pakistan’s military had pleaded for a cessation of hostilities during the ongoing Operation Sindoor. This statement emerged amidst ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad, emphasizing that there remains no room for any third-party intervention in their bilateral issues.
The remarks came from Petal Gahlot, First Secretary in India’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations. Gahlot delivered the statement following an address by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA). Sharif’s remarks included praise for former US President Donald Trump, attributing his efforts toward averting a war between the two nuclear-armed nations.
“This Assembly witnessed absurd theatrics from the Prime Minister of Pakistan,” Gahlot noted, criticizing Sharif for glorifying terrorism, which Gahlot claimed is central to Pakistan’s foreign policy. He argued that instead of acknowledging terrorist activities, Pakistan should focus on maintaining peace.
In his UNGA speech, Sharif extended an offer to India for a “composite, comprehensive and result-oriented” dialogue on outstanding issues, particularly concerning the Kashmir conflict. He criticized India’s actions, accusing New Delhi of exacerbating the situation in the region.
Sharif’s comments included a high commendation for Trump, stating, “In recognition of President Trump’s wonderful and outstanding contribution to promote peace in our part of the world, Pakistan nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize.” This statement raised eyebrows and sparked controversy within diplomatic circles.
Operation Sindoor initiated on May 7, 2023, with India targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation served as a direct retaliation for the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 civilians. India’s measures aimed to deter further terrorist activities emanating from Pakistan.
India has consistently highlighted that the cessation of hostilities was a result of direct discussions between the Directors General of Military Operations from both countries. As tensions simmer between the two nations, India’s government reaffirms its commitment to national security and peace in the region.
