POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Omar Abdullah Says Pakistan Has Successfully Raised Kashmir Issue Globally Amid Indo-Pak Tensions

Omar Abdullah claims Pakistan has succeeded in raising Kashmir globally. He comments on the aftermath of Pahalgam incident and US interest in mediation.
2025-05-12
Omar Abdullah Says Pakistan Has Successfully Raised Kashmir Issue Globally Amid Indo-Pak Tensions

Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has commented that Pakistan has succeeded in raising the Kashmir issue on the global stage, particularly in the wake of the ongoing Indo-Pak tensions. In a recent interview with Indian TV, Abdullah discussed the shifting dynamics and highlighted that while many aspects of the conflict have changed due to the Indo-Pak war, one thing that has remained constant is Pakistan’s success in internationalizing the Kashmir issue.

Abdullah noted that despite the ongoing conflict, there has been no justice for the victims of the Pahalgam incident—a tragedy that unfolded on April 22, 2024, when 26 people were killed in a firing at a tourist center in Pahalgam, a region of occupied Kashmir. Pakistan condemned the incident immediately and offered to cooperate in a transparent investigation. However, India’s ruling party, the BJP, quickly accused Pakistan without evidence and used the incident as a political tool, accusing Pakistan of involvement in the attack.

Abdullah further emphasized that the ongoing war has led to unexpected outcomes, including an increased international interest in Kashmir. He specifically pointed out that the United States is now playing a role in the Kashmir issue, positioning itself as a potential monitor or mediator.

Tensions and Diplomatic Stalemate:

The military conflict between India and Pakistan escalated after the Pahalgam incident, with Pakistan **suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and warning India against diverting the flow of water from Pakistani rivers, considering it an act of war. Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif declared that any attempt to construct a dam on Pakistani rivers would be catastrophic for the country.

The situation worsened when India conducted airstrikes on Azad Kashmir on the night of May 6-7, targeting several locations in Pakistan. In retaliation, Pakistani forces destroyed five Indian aircraft, including three Rafales. Later, on May 8, India launched Israeli-made Heron drones targeting multiple cities, including Rawalpindi where the Pakistan Super League (PSL) was being held.

On May 9-10, India attempted further aerial strikes, but Pakistan responded effectively, destroying several Indian airfields and checkposts, including the Indian S-400 air defense system.

Ceasefire and International Mediation:

Faced with the sustained military pressure from Pakistan, India requested a ceasefire through the mediation efforts of the United States. Following US efforts, a ceasefire agreement was eventually reached, which was later confirmed by US President Donald Trump.

In his tweet, Trump reiterated that he would work with both Pakistan and India to explore possible solutions to the long-standing Kashmir issue. His intervention signals a shift in the global diplomatic landscape, with the US now playing a more active role in the Kashmir dispute.