SRINAGAR — Political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday welcomed the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, terming it a significant step towards peace and stability while emphasising the need for sustained dialogue.
Mehbooba Mufti, president of the Peoples Democratic Party, said: “Thousands of people were killed in the attacks on Iran. It seemed like we were heading towards a world war. America and Israel were brutally attacking Iran. I am happy that the Almighty gave courage to Iran not only to stand up to the American aggression but also to force its lapdog, Israel, to its knees. Both these countries were forced to seek dialogue.”
The former chief minister said the ceasefire was a welcome development for the Muslim world and also lauded Pakistan’s role in brokering the ceasefire.
“Pakistan’s role in the ceasefire cannot be ignored. It played a central and key role in saving the region and the larger world from a catastrophic war,” she added.
Mufti also appreciated Iran for “only attacking military installations” of its enemies even though the US and Israel targeted civilian infrastructure, including power houses, universities and bridges.
Tariq Hameed Karra, president of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee, said: “I welcome the ceasefire between Iran and the US as a prudent and timely step towards restoring stability in an increasingly fragile global environment,”
He said the ceasefire reflects a growing global realisation that sustainable peace cannot emerge from prolonged escalation, but from balanced engagement that respects sovereignty, acknowledges legitimate concerns, and preserves dignity.
“I strongly emphasise that the international community must now convert this pause into a credible and structured peace process, where dialogue replaces distrust, and stability is pursued without compromising fundamental principles,” he said.
Karra said the 40-day course of this confrontation carries a striking historical parallel to the Battle of Khaybar, referring to the early war between Muslims of Medina and the Jews in 628 AD.
“The Battle of Khaybar also took 40 days, symbolising endurance, strategic patience, and clarity of purpose in the face of sustained pressure. Such moments remind us that lasting influence is shaped not merely by force, but by the ability to remain composed while firmly holding one’s ground. The message from these 40 days is unmistakable: restraint, backed by resolve, ultimately shapes the pathway to peace,” he said.
Farooq Abdullah, president of the National Conference, said: “I thank God for giving courage to the US and Iran to sit at the table and resolve their issues, because there is no other option than dialogue”.
“War has never been a solution, and it will never be. So I, and on behalf of our people, congratulate these countries (the US and Iran) and hope they will sit and talk. I pray to God that they talk about peace as this war affected the entire world,” he said.
The former J&K chief minister said they want peace as many people from the country, especially from J&K, work in Arab countries.
“We are worried about the plight of the people who work there and earn a livelihood. We want the war to stop,” he added.
Abdullah expressed hope that India would play its part to diffuse the tensions.
To a question about the US reportedly accepting Iran’s 10-point proposal, Abdullah said there are proposals from both sides, and there will be discussions on them.
“I hope India also lends its help as it is a friend of the US, because it will have a huge impact on us as well,” he said.
“May God take them to a point where peace gets established,” he said.
Asked about Israel keeping Lebanon out of the ceasefire, the NC chief said Israel is also facing losses, and they have not escaped from it.
“There is also much destruction there, and they cannot end that by fighting wars,” he said.
Abdullah also refused to credit any country for brokering the ceasefire, saying it was God’s doing.
“I will not give credit to any country, but say that God created a way and they are trying to tread that path,” he added.
“If India has to develop and prosper, we have to offer the hand of friendship to every country. We can move forward through friendship, and animosity will take us backwards. I will also tell Pakistan that the time has come for it to let go of terrorism and take the path of prosperity and brotherhood. There is no other way,” he added. — (PTI)