A fresh diplomatic exchange unfolded at the United Nations after Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif raised allegations against India and spoke about Kashmir during his address. Exercising India’s right of reply, Indian diplomat Petal Gahlot responded by challenging Pakistan’s narrative on terrorism, democratic rights and Jammu and Kashmir. Gahlot highlighted the presence of Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad, where the al-Qaeda founder was killed in a US operation in 2011, and pointed to the location’s proximity to Pakistan’s premier military academy. She also questioned Pakistan’s presentation of itself as a victim of terrorism while referring to India’s concerns about terror attacks linked to Pakistan-based groups. On Kashmir, Gahlot reiterated New Delhi’s position that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and shifted attention to Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. She referred to alleged violence, killings and restrictions on basic rights in the region. Her statement also mentioned India’s response to terrorism during the 2025 India-Pakistan hostilities and stressed that attacks would have consequences. The exchange reflected the sharply contrasting positions maintained by India and Pakistan at the UN on terrorism, Kashmir and bilateral security. Pakistan has its own stated position on these issues and rejects India’s accusations. The remarks from both sides have renewed international attention on the longstanding India-Pakistan diplomatic dispute, with terrorism and Kashmir once again emerging as central points of contention during the UN proceedings. The latest confrontation also highlights how both countries continue to use international forums to present their respective positions before the global community.
