New York, 1 July 2025:
Speaking at a digital exhibition called "The Human Cost of Terrorism" at the United Nations Headquarters, India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar made it clear that inaction on a global scale is unacceptable.
“No impunity to terrorists, no treating them as proxies, and no yielding to nuclear blackmail," he declared. Major terror incidents are highlighted in the exhibition, including the recent Pahalgam massacre on April 22 and previous attacks on Mumbai in 1993 and 2008, which are linked to terror groups based in Pakistan. Acts of state-sponsored terrorism must be "exposed and countered," Jaishankar stated, adding that "terrorism anywhere is a threat to peace everywhere."
He specifically mentioned India's retaliatory action, Operation Sindoor, saying it was a measured and legally sound response. He confirmed that India remains resolute and will not be intimidated by the prospect of nuclear retaliation. Jaishankar's intervention, which took place during Pakistan's UN Security Council presidency, demonstrated India's insistence on a bilateral solution to cross-border terrorism without the need for outside intervention. He made it clear that those who commit or aid terrorism would not be given any leeway.
The minister presented a broader picture of a world that is becoming more and more divided due to the wounds caused by the wars in Gaza and Ukraine as well as the ongoing trauma from COVID-19. "The world must not resign itself to prolonged violence," he said, calling for reform of multilateral institutions to better respond to global threats. Additionally, Jaishankar reaffirmed India's refusal to give in to nuclear blackmail under any circumstances. He emphasized that India's strategic position is unwavering in the face of international pressure by declaring, "India will never give in to nuclear blackmail."
The speech, according to analysts, is a part of a larger diplomatic narrative in which India demands accountability from nations that support terrorism while simultaneously projecting strength in international fora. In order to gain support for its strong policy position, New Delhi's strategy combines bilateral outreach with public advocacy through organizations like the UN.
It is anticipated that the exhibition at UN headquarters, which runs until July 11th, will garner international attention. Jaishankar's speech, meanwhile, is a forceful appeal for swift counterterrorism action and adherence to national security imperatives.
