Srinagar, April 9, KNT: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the United States must restrain Israel for a ceasefire in the Middle East to hold, asserting that continued military action risks prolonging the conflict.
Speaking in Srinagar, Abdullah said that “the US must control Israel” if a ceasefire is to be sustained, while also stating that Iran “did not start the war” but had it imposed upon it.
He criticized statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump, saying they were inconsistent. “Trump himself doesn’t know what he is talking about; he changes his statements every now and then. His abusive language is not acceptable,” Abdullah said, referring to remarks on social media.
He also said that such language would not be permissible for ordinary users on social media platforms, calling for more responsible communication from leadership.
On regional diplomacy, Abdullah said Pakistan had played a role in mediation efforts. “Pakistan has done what other countries couldn’t do,” he said, adding that India could have played a similar role. He described this as his personal opinion.
Referring to the conflict’s impact, Abdullah questioned its outcome, stating, “What have we achieved from this war? Nothing. Stop bombing on Lebanon.”
On economic implications, he noted that the Strait of Hormuz was open before the conflict but now faces uncertainty, with Iran indicating potential changes to transit conditions.
Separately, on domestic issues, Abdullah questioned the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill, stating that while the legislation was introduced in 2024, clarity was still lacking. “We were told post census they will consider this bill. Now what has changed, let BJP clarify their stand,” he said.
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He further asked why another bill was being discussed despite the earlier passage, saying the matter needed explanation.
On environmental concerns, Abdullah highlighted shrinking water bodies in Jammu and Kashmir, attributing it to both human factors and climate change. He called it a collective responsibility to address the issue and advocated a ban on plastic bags.
“It will take collective responsibility from all of us to save our water bodies,” he said, adding that society must decide what kind of region it wants to leave for future generations.
Abdullah also said that Urban Local Body elections in Jammu and Kashmir would be conducted soon.
Earlier, the Chief Minister distributed appointment letters under the Jammu and Kashmir Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme at SKICC Srinagar. [KNT]
