Urges Iran, US to demonstrate wisdom, statesmanship
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah on Sunday expressed concern over the rapidly escalating tensions in West Asia, describing the unfolding situation as a grave threat to regional and global peace, security, and stability, and stressed that dialogue, diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international commitments remain the only credible and sustainable path towards resolving differences.
Dr Farooq, in a statement issued here, said that any action capable of undermining peace, fueling instability, or derailing diplomatic efforts must be unequivocally discouraged, and stressed that all stakeholders should work collectively to safeguard the fragile peace process and prevent the region from descending into another devastating conflict.
Expressing deep anguish over continuing Israeli military operations in Lebanon and the tragic loss of innocent civilian lives, Dr Farooq said that the use of force cannot provide a lasting solution to political disputes. “Military confrontation only deepens human suffering, displaces civilian populations, and further destabilizes an already volatile region. Military escalation serves no one’s long-term interests,” he said, urging the international community to intensify efforts towards securing an immediate ceasefire, ensuring protection of civilians, and facilitating unhindered humanitarian assistance.
Appealing to both the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States to demonstrate wisdom, patience, and statesmanship, Dr Farooq emphasised that the hard-earned diplomatic progress achieved through sustained dialogue and painstaking negotiations must not be allowed to unravel. He underscored that preserving existing understandings and diplomatic engagements remains essential for maintaining regional stability and preventing further escalation.
Dr Farooq called upon countries engaged in mediation, along with regional and international organizations, to redouble their diplomatic initiatives aimed at de-escalating tensions, reviving meaningful dialogue, and strengthening confidence-building measures that can help avert a wider regional confrontation.
Highlighting the far-reaching consequences of armed conflicts, Dr Farooq said that wars seldom remain confined to the countries directly involved. “Their economic and humanitarian repercussions are felt across the globe through disruptions in energy supplies, rising fuel and food prices, inflationary pressures, and increasing hardships for ordinary people, particularly vulnerable and middle-income communities. The preservation of international peace is not merely a political imperative but a humanitarian and economic necessity,” he said.
Expressing hope for a peaceful resolution, Dr Farooq urged all parties to act with prudence, restraint, and a sincere commitment to diplomacy so that lasting peace, regional stability, and mutual respect may prevail in West Asia.