In strong UNGA speech, EAM Jaishankar calls Pakistan "serial practitioner of terror"
EAM S Jaishankar calls Pakistan a serial practitioner of terror at the UNGA, asserting India's right to self-defence against state-sponsored terrorism.
In a blistering address at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a sharp rebuke against cross-border state-sponsored terrorism. Addressing world leaders at the UN headquarters in New York, the Minister exposed the duplicity of nations attempting to justify safe havens for extremists and asserted New Delhi's unyielding resolve to safeguard national security.
A Rebuttal to Malicious Propaganda
Jaishankar did not mince words when addressing the assembly, specifically targeting the narratives used to normalize terrorism. He pointed out that a "serial practitioner of terrorism" had recently misrepresented facts before the assembly, attempting to claim immunity from the consequences of its actions.
"That will not stand. Our right to defend ourselves against terrorism will be exercised," the External Affairs Minister declared. He further emphasized that friendship and goodwill cannot coexist with terrorism, and any understandings built upon such a foundation would naturally be called into question. He concluded that it is ultimately up to the perpetrator of terrorism to mend its ways.
Dismantling State-Sponsored Terror Networks
The Minister elaborated on the institutional dangers posed by state actors, noting that terrorism being state-sponsored with cross-border objectives is a direct affront to the global order. He called on the international community to dismantle these state-backed syndicates without exception and urged for a zero-tolerance approach, particularly in exposing and countering the financial aspects of terror networks.
India Exercises Right of Reply
Following the address by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, India exercised its right of reply. Indian diplomat Petal Gahlot termed Sharif's remarks "bizarre" and highlighted Pakistan's history of sheltering high-profile terrorists. She specifically noted that Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks, was discovered living near a premier academy of the Pakistan Army.
Gahlot further dismantled Islamabad's narrative, noting that while Pakistan claims to uphold security by day, it "perpetrates terrorism by night." She warned that continued terrorism from Pakistan would lead to consequences, reinforcing India's sovereign right to self-defence.
Rejecting Third-Party Intervention
The diplomatic exchange also addressed claims regarding mediation. While Sharif attempted to credit US President Donald Trump for intervention during the 2025 conflict, New Delhi has consistently rejected any form of third-party intervention in its affairs.
India’s firm stance follows significant military actions, such as Operation Sindoor on May 7 last year, which targeted terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the Pahalgam attack. The Indian delegation concluded by urging the UN Assembly to recognize Pakistan and its policies for what they truly are, rather than accepting the mendacious presentations of its representatives.