The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) convened a closed-door session to address escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy to mitigate the risk of military confrontation.

As regional instability grows, the UNSC stressed the importance of resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with its resolutions.

During the meeting, concerns were raised over India’s recent unilateral actions, which have increased the potential for conflict. The UNSC highlighted the necessity for restraint and the peaceful resolution of issues. Pakistan’s UN Ambassador, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, briefed Council members on India’s provocative measures and warned of the imminent threat of kinetic action.

In financial markets, the Karachi Stock Exchange indices showed mixed reactions to the geopolitical tensions. The KSE-100 Index recorded a slight decline, closing at 45,000 points, while the KSE-30 Index mirrored this trend, ending at 18,000 points. Meanwhile, the KSE All-Share Index saw a slight increase, closing at 30,200 points. Islamic indices, KMI-30 and KMI All-Share, remained relatively stable at 70,000 and 25,500 points, respectively. The BKTI and OGTI indices, which track banking and oil and gas sectors, also showed minor fluctuations.

The market turnover for the day was recorded at 150 million shares with a traded value of PKR 5 billion, reflecting cautious investor sentiment amid geopolitical uncertainties. Market capitalization stood at PKR 7 trillion.

Pakistan reaffirmed its preparedness to defend its sovereignty, emphasizing its right to self-defense under the UN Charter, while categorically rejecting India’s allegations regarding the April 22 attack. The UNSC members were also briefed on India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a move Pakistan views as an act of war.

The UNSC’s call for intensified diplomatic efforts and dialogue aims to prevent a conflict that could have far-reaching consequences for South Asia and beyond.