Srinagar, April 10 (IANS) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Kashmir’s chief priest and Chairman of All Parties Hurriyat Conference, on Friday, backed diplomacy for West Asia peace and called for a resolution based on justice.

Addressing the Friday congregation at the historic Jama Masjid in Nowhatta area of old Srinagar city, Mirwaiz Umar said that the entire world is looking towards Islamabad with hope and anticipation, awaiting a breakthrough that will steer the region away from further conflict and restore peace.

He noted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir also earnestly hope that the ongoing talks between the US and Iran will bring relief from the cycle of violence and suffering for the people of Iran, Lebanon, and ultimately Palestine, through the delivery of justice.

Mirwaiz Umar recalled that the people of Kashmir fully comprehend the futility and human cost of war and conflict, having themselves endured decades of grief, loss, and suffering.

“In war, there are no real victors, everyone loses, in lives, in dignity, and in humanity,” he said, adding that prolonged conflicts only leave behind destruction, trauma, and wounds that persist across generations, breeding hatred and prejudice.

He stressed that the most meaningful and civilised way forward lies in serious engagement and dialogue grounded in justice and the redressal of genuine concerns among all parties.

He emphasised that lasting peace can never be imposed through force, but can only emerge through sincere and constructive deliberations.

Referring to recent developments in Lebanon, Mirwaiz Umar unequivocally condemned the killing of civilians in Beirut, describing the Israeli regime as a perpetrator of relentless violence and a deliberate spoiler of every genuine opportunity for peace in the region.

He said such actions not only deepen the crisis but also undermine all efforts aimed at de-escalation.

He reiterated that any lasting resolution will remain elusive until the core issue — the legitimate and inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to their land, is addressed with justice.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq concluded with prayers for global peace, urging an end to bloodshed and human suffering, and calling upon humanity to rise above conflict and choose the path of peace and reconciliation.

–IANS

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