Resolution of the Kashmir dispute is essential for peace and stability in South Asia.
Syed Faiz Naqshbandi
The conscience of humanity demands an immediate end to Indian repression and occupation of Jammu and Kashmir. There can be no enduring peace in South Asia without a just and lasting resolution of the Kashmir dispute as per aspirations of Kashmiris. This enduring reality has gained renewed relevance in a world increasingly defined by geopolitical tensions and the urgent need for diplomacy and conflict resolution.
In this evolving global context, Pakistan has demonstrated remarkable diplomatic maturity by facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran. *The recent engagement hosted in Islamabad reflects Pakistan’s growing stature as a responsible and credible mediator. Under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan has successfully positioned itself at the center of a sensitive and complex diplomatic initiative, drawing global attention and appreciation.*
By bringing two long-standing adversaries to the negotiating table, Pakistan has reinforced the principle that sustained dialogue remains the only viable path to peace. This achievement highlights Pakistan’s commitment to regional and global stability and underscores its potential role as a bridge between conflicting powers.
However, while Pakistan contributes constructively to international peace efforts, the Indian occupation of Kashmir followed by regime of atrocities continues to cast a long shadow over South Asia. The situation in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK) remains deeply concerning, with persistent Indian denial of fundamental freedoms, heavy militarization, and measures that have intensified the suffering of the Kashmiris. India had deployed plus nine hundred thousand troops in occupied Kashmir making it highest militarized zone of the world where everyone is under arrest. Laws stands framed to facilitate human right violations. Systemic democratic changes are taking place on Israeli patterns. No freedom of expression visible.
From the standpoint of international law, the Kashmir dispute is firmly established as an internationally recognized issue. The United Nations Security Council resolutions explicitly call for a free and impartial plebiscite to enable the people of Jammu and Kashmir to exercise their right to self-determination.
The legal obligations in this regard are further reinforced by key provisions of the United Nations Charter. Article 1(2) affirms the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples. Article 2(4) clearly prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, emphasizing the need for peaceful settlement of disputes. Additionally, Article 25 of the UN Charter obligates member states to accept and carry out the decisions of the Security Council, thereby underscoring the binding nature of relevant resolutions on Kashmir.
Furthermore, Article 33 of the UN Charter calls upon parties to any dispute likely to endanger international peace and security to seek resolution through peaceful means, including negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. These provisions collectively establish a comprehensive legal framework that supports a just and peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute.
Beyond the UN Charter, international humanitarian law also carries significant relevance. The Fourth Geneva Convention (1949) mandates the protection of civilians in situations of conflict and occupation, placing clear responsibilities on occupying powers to ensure the rights and dignity of the population under their control.
The continued failure of India to implement these legal obligations and commitments raises serious concerns regarding adherence to international norms. Kashmiris and Pakistan are demanding implementation of UN resolutions in letter and spirit. The persistence of the Kashmir dispute, Indian occupation coupled with ongoing Indian crimes against humanity , poses a direct challenge to peace and stability in South Asia.
The contrast is striking: Pakistan is actively facilitating dialogue between major global actors and contributing to peace building efforts, while the Kashmir issue remains unresolved despite clear international legal frameworks and longstanding commitments.
It is therefore imperative for the international community to renew its focus on Kashmir with sincerity and urgency. Just as diplomatic engagement is being encouraged in other global conflicts, similar efforts must be directed toward resolving this longstanding dispute in accordance with international law and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. US President Trump can also play a significant role for resolution of Kashmir and add this resolution of longstanding disputes into his account.
To sum up, peace in South Asia cannot be achieved in isolation from justice. Pakistan’s recent diplomatic successes demonstrate that even the most entrenched conflicts can be addressed through dialogue and principled engagement. The same commitment must now be extended to Kashmir.