Can Pakistan Terrorists Truly Claim to be 'Civilians'?
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Synopsis
In a powerful statement at the UN, India challenges the narrative of Pakistani terrorists claiming civilian status to evade accountability. Ambassador P. Harish highlights the hypocrisy of such claims and emphasizes the need for international action against terrorism. This article explores the implications of these statements in the context of ongoing regional tensions.
Key Takeaways
- India rejects claims of immunity for Pakistani terrorists.
- Operation Sindoor targeted known terrorists.
- Pakistan's military officials attended funerals of terrorists.
- Retaliatory actions led to civilian casualties.
- International Law condemns attacks on civilians.
United Nations, May 24 (NationPress) India has asserted that terrorists based in Pakistan cannot hide behind the assertion of being civilians to evade anti-terrorism measures.
"Let’s be unequivocal: The safeguarding of civilians should not be used as a shield for UN-designated terrorists," stated India's Permanent Representative to the UN, P. Harish, during a session of the UN Security Council on Friday.
He emphasized that Pakistan has consistently exploited civilian cover to further its terrorism agenda.
During a Security Council discourse focused on new threats to civilians and their protection, Ambassador Harish dismissed Pakistan's claims that civilians were harmed during Operation Sindoor, highlighting the evident connection between terrorists and the Pakistani government and military.
"A country that fails to differentiate between terrorists and civilians lacks the authority to advocate for civilian protection," Harish stated.
He pointed out that prominent government, police, and military officials recently attended the funerals of notorious terrorists eliminated in Operation Sindoor. Among them were Lieutenant General Fayyaz Hussain Shah and Major General Rao Imran, along with Punjab Police Inspector General Usman Anwar, who paid their respects to Hafiz Abdur Rauf, a senior figure in Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) designated as a terrorist by the US.
In response to the strikes on terrorists, Pakistan retaliated with targeted artillery fire into Indian border regions, resulting in the deaths of over 20 civilians,” Ambassador Harish mentioned.
“There was a deliberate assault on places of worship, including gurudwaras, temples, and convents, as well as medical facilities,” he added.
“To present arguments to this body after such actions is profoundly hypocritical,” he stated.
“Regrettably, during armed conflicts, civilians, including women and children, are often utilized as human shields for military and terrorist operations. Hence, it is crucial for the international community to commit to concrete actions to enforce relevant Security Council resolutions that have been previously established,” he noted.
India reinforced that any aggression against civilians and humanitarian workers constitutes a severe violation of International Law, particularly International Humanitarian Law.
The current legal framework regarding the protection of civilians must not be disregarded.
“Adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, including the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Member States, should be the foundation for all actions taken by the Council in defense of civilians.”
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize India's stance as a steadfast position against the exploitation of civilian status by terrorists. The nation remains committed to addressing terrorism with accountability while advocating for the protection of civilians under International Law. This situation demands a careful examination of the narratives presented by both sides, ensuring that the truth is prioritized over political agendas.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did India declare about Pakistani terrorists?
India stated that terrorists based in Pakistan cannot claim immunity as civilians to evade anti-terrorism actions.
Who is P. Harish?
P. Harish is India's Permanent Representative to the UN, who made strong statements regarding the protection of civilians and the accountability of terrorists.
What was Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor was an Indian military operation targeting terrorists in Pakistan, which led to significant controversy regarding civilian casualties.
How did Pakistan respond to the Operation Sindoor strikes?
Pakistan retaliated by shelling Indian border areas, resulting in civilian casualties.
What is the stance of International Law on attacks against civilians?
International Law, particularly International Humanitarian Law, views attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers as serious violations.
