PM Shehbaz Sharif at UNGA 81: Pakistan Calls for Peace, Diplomacy and Respect for International Law

NEW YORK, September 25, 2026: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, addressing the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, presented Pakistan’s position on major regional and global challenges, with particular emphasis on Kashmir, Palestine and Gaza, water disputes, Iran–US tensions, terrorism, regional security and the need for diplomacy and peaceful conflict resolution.

Water Must Never Be Used as a Weapon

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed that water must not be used as a weapon against another country. Referring to the Indus Waters Treaty, he warned that any attempt to stop, restrict or divert Pakistan’s water would be regarded by Pakistan as an act of war.

Kashmir: Call for the Right to Self-Determination

The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s position on Jammu and Kashmir, calling for the right of the Kashmiri people to self-determination and stressing that a durable peace in South Asia requires a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Gaza and Palestine: Urgent International Action

The Prime Minister highlighted the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and for an independent, sovereign and viable Palestinian state, based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role in the US–Iran Crisis

Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts aimed at bringing the United States and Iran toward dialogue. He emphasized that even during periods of intense confrontation, diplomacy and negotiations remain essential tools for preventing further escalation.

Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb: Vital Global Trade Routes

The Prime Minister warned against turning the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb into zones of conflict. He described these strategic waterways as vital arteries of global trade and energy supplies, stressing the wider consequences of instability in these areas.

Saudi Arabia’s Security and Regional Stability

Shehbaz Sharif condemned attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and emphasized the importance Pakistan attaches to the security and sanctity of the Holy Mosques. He also referred to the emerging regional security cooperation between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.

Pakistan’s Sacrifices Against Terrorism

The Prime Minister told the international community that Pakistan has made enormous sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, with civilians and security personnel losing their lives over the years. He also raised concerns over terrorism emanating from Afghan territory.

A Central Message: Dialogue Over Conflict

The broader message of the Prime Minister’s UNGA address centred on dialogue, diplomacy, peaceful settlement of disputes, international law and a stronger multilateral system.

At a time when conflicts in the Middle East, South Asia and other regions are placing additional pressure on global peace and economic stability, Pakistan used the UN platform to underline its call for negotiation rather than confrontation and cooperation rather than escalation.

Written & Research by Irfan Tariq