JKNC Chief Farooq Abdullah calls for peace amid ongoing West Asia conflict
Srinagar, March 20
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Friday urged an end to the West Asia conflict, praying for peace and the well-being of people, and said that the conflict has global consequences.
Speaking to the reporters in Srinagar, JKNC chief said, "...May Allah end this war, bring peace, and let people live comfortably... It will have an impact on the world. Therefore, the war should end as soon as possible."
These remarks come as the escalating conflict in West Asia reaches its 21st day, following the joint US-Israeli offensive against Iran on February 28, in which 86-year-old Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was also killed. Following his death, Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the former leader, was appointed as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic.
As Iran reportedly exerts pressure on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the resulting disruptions to oil, gas, and maritime trade routes continue to pose a mounting threat to global economic stability.
Earlier today, the Ministry of External Affairs said Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with five world leaders on Thursday to discuss the evolving situation in West Asia, stressed the need for dialogue and diplomacy, while condemning attacks on energy infrastructure.
Addressing an inter-ministerial briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Prime Minister held conversations with leaders of Oman, Malaysia, France, Jordan, and Qatar.
The Prime Minister spoke to five world leaders yesterday. He spoke to leaders of Oman, Malaysia, France, Jordan and Qatar. In these conversations, the Prime Minister put forth India's position on the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He highlighted the need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy for de-escalation and the subsequent restoration of peace and stability," Jaiswal said.
He added that the leaders also raised concerns over attacks on energy infrastructure and stressed the importance of safe maritime routes.
The Prime Minister strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure. Prime Minister and the various leaders reiterated their support for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz," he added.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the call for peace, we must be clear. India's primary concern should be the safety of our citizens in the region and protecting our energy supplies. The Strait of Hormuz is a lifeline. Our foreign policy is on the right track.
Global consequences are an understatement. Petrol prices are inching up every week. The common man suffers the most when superpowers fight. Hope dialogue prevails soon.
Respectfully, I find it a bit simplistic to just pray for peace. The article shows the complex geopolitics at play - new leadership in Iran, strategic straits, global trade. India's balanced diplomacy, as shown by PM's calls, is the pragmatic need of the hour.
Good to see leaders across the spectrum, from Srinagar to Delhi, emphasizing dialogue. We have a huge diaspora in the Gulf. Their safety and the stability of our energy imports are non-negotiable. India's voice for peace is crucial.
The economic angle is scary. Disruptions in trade routes can hit our exports and imports badly. Hope the international community heeds calls for restraint. India should lead the Global South in advocating for de-escalation.
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