Srinagar, April 8, KNT: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday questioned the outcome of the Iran–United States ceasefire, asking what the US achieved after nearly 39 days of conflict.
Reacting to the development, Abdullah said the ceasefire allows reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which he noted was already “open and freely available” before the war began. “What exactly did this 39-day war achieve for the US?” he said in a post on X.
His remarks came as the United States and Iran agreed to a temporary two-week ceasefire, aimed at halting hostilities and easing tensions in the region.
According to available details, the ceasefire includes conditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route, with safe passage to be ensured under agreed arrangements.
US President Donald Trump described the development as a major step, calling it a “victory” and a move toward de-escalation, while signaling support for further negotiations.
Iran, however, has maintained that the ceasefire is temporary and does not signify the end of the war, with officials emphasizing that broader issues such as sanctions and long-term security guarantees remain unresolved.
Diplomatic efforts behind the ceasefire involved Pakistan playing a mediating role, with Islamabad proposed as the venue for upcoming negotiations between the two sides scheduled on Friday.
While the ceasefire has been welcomed internationally as a step toward de-escalation, uncertainty remains over whether it will lead to a lasting settlement or remain a short-term pause in hostilities.
Abdullah’s remarks reflect broader political reactions questioning the outcome and costs of the conflict, even as diplomatic efforts continue. [KNT]
