United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has offered to mediate between Pakistan and India to promote peace, warning both countries that war is not a solution and any military escalation could spiral out of control.

Speaking on the rising tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, Guterres urged both sides to resolve their disputes through dialogue and mutual understanding. “This is a time for restraint and tolerance. I urge both countries to take a step back,” he said, adding, “War is never a solution. It cannot provide a military resolution to political problems.”

The UN chief extended the organisation’s platform for peaceful engagement, stating that the United Nations stands ready to support any peace initiative between Pakistan and India.

Condemning the recent incident in Pahalgam, Guterres said, “Targeting innocent civilians is unacceptable.” He reiterated that any miscalculation or military action could quickly escalate beyond control.

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“Let both nations hear this clearly: do not make a mistake. Take a step back for peace,” the Secretary-General emphasised in his address.