Dar Reaffirms Commitment to Kashmir Resolution, Palestine Support in Strong Global Address
ISLAMABAD – July 30, 2025:
In a fresh diplomatic outreach aimed at easing long-standing tensions, Pakistan has extended an offer to India for the resumption of comprehensive peace talks, asserting that sustainable regional peace cannot be achieved without meaningful engagement on all outstanding issues — especially the Kashmir dispute.
Speaking at a press conference in New York, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called for the revival of the “composite dialogue” framework between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. He made it clear that any future discussions must not be limited to the issue of terrorism alone.
“Pakistan has itself suffered immensely from terrorism,” Dar said. “We believe dialogue should address the broader spectrum of issues that continue to hold the region back — and that includes Kashmir.”
Dar emphasized that peace in South Asia is intrinsically linked to resolving the decades-old Jammu and Kashmir conflict. He noted that even former U.S. President Donald Trump had recognized the sensitivity and importance of the issue during his tenure.
The deputy premier’s remarks followed a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where both sides exchanged views on regional security and counterterrorism cooperation. “Secretary Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism,” Dar said, describing the discussion as frank and forward-looking.
Indus Waters Treaty and Israel Stance
Turning to the water-sharing dispute under the Indus Waters Treaty, Dar reaffirmed that the agreement was an internationally recognized, legally binding accord that cannot be altered unilaterally by either party. “Any attempts by India to divert or restrict Pakistan’s water share would be unacceptable,” he warned.
In response to a question about Pakistan’s stance on Israel, Dar categorically ruled out any plans to establish diplomatic relations. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
A Fierce Stand for Palestine at Global Forum
Earlier in the day, Dar took the floor at a high-level international conference on Palestine, delivering a powerful speech condemning Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza. He painted a grim picture of the humanitarian crisis, describing the besieged enclave as a “graveyard of international law.”
“For more than 75 years, Palestinians have endured brutal occupation and the denial of basic rights,” he said. “Over 58,000 civilians — mostly women and children — have been killed. These are not just statistics; these are war crimes, and the world must not stay silent.”
Dar called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire across Gaza and other occupied Palestinian territories, full humanitarian access, and political support for a genuine two-state solution. He also welcomed France’s recent recognition of Palestine as a state and urged other nations to follow suit.
“Accountability must replace impunity,” he declared, calling for international mechanisms to prosecute violations of humanitarian law. “The occupation must end — and it must end now.”
Pakistan’s Support for a Lasting Peace
He also endorsed the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s proposal for an international protection mechanism for Palestinians and pledged Pakistan’s technical assistance in areas such as healthcare, education, and governance.
“The only real path to lasting peace is through freedom, dignity, and the right to self-determination,” Dar concluded. “Palestine must be granted full UN membership, and its people must no longer be treated as stateless victims.”
