Srinagar – June 20, 2025, Indian administered Kashmir: Mirwaiz of Kashmir, Dr. Molvi Muhammad Umar Farooq, addressed a large congregation at the historic Jamia Masjid Srinagar on Friday, expressing grave concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza and Iran. The ongoing humanitarian crisis and intensifying conflict have raised alarms across the globe, and Mirwaiz called for urgent action to prevent further loss of life.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza and Iran
Mirwaiz highlighted the severe humanitarian situation in Gaza, where Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of over 90 individuals, including children, in just the past 24 hours. He described the situation as “beyond words,” emphasizing the tragic reality that innocent civilians are being killed as they queue for food aid. “What could be more horrifying and inhumane than bombing people while they are simply trying to survive?” Mirwaiz said, condemning the violence.
He also expressed deep concern about Israel’s aggression spreading to Iran, where hundreds of civilians have been killed and thousands injured. “The news of potential U.S. military strikes on Iran is deeply alarming, particularly for the people of Kashmir, who share strong cultural and religious ties with the region,” he added. The Mirwaiz warned that such actions could further destabilize the region and result in widespread devastation.
Call for Peaceful Dialogue
In his address, Mirwaiz urged U.S. President Donald Trump to refrain from launching an attack on Iran, advocating for diplomacy instead. “The use of force will only escalate the conflict and lead to further destruction and death. There is a better way forward, and that is through dialogue. Peaceful discussions can resolve the concerns of all parties involved,” he said, stressing the importance of dialogue over war.
He reiterated the longstanding principles of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Action Committee (JKPC), founded by his father, the late Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq. Despite the Indian government’s recent ban on the JKPC, Mirwaiz affirmed that the organization remains committed to peaceful negotiations and holding the government accountable. “We will continue to believe in these principles despite the ban,” Mirwaiz said.
Appeal for Immediate Medical Care for Shabbir Shah
Mirwaiz also expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health of incarcerated leader Shabbir Ahmad Shah, who has been languishing in Tihar Jail for years without trial. “Shabbir Shah’s health is rapidly declining, and he urgently needs medical intervention. It is deeply distressing that his family has not been allowed to speak with him over the phone for two years, and at a time when he requires surgery, he is being denied care,” Mirwaiz lamented.
Mirwaiz called on the Indian authorities to provide Shabbir Shah with immediate medical treatment and allow his family to visit him during this critical period. “This inhumane treatment of political prisoners in Kashmir must end. The prolonged detention, lack of medical care, and denial of basic rights are a violation of human dignity and justice,” Mirwaiz said.
He further appealed to the elected government of Jammu and Kashmir to address this grave humanitarian issue and assist in securing medical care for Shah and other political prisoners who are suffering due to harsh conditions and prolonged incarceration.
Global Call for Accountability and Justice
Mirwaiz concluded his speech by emphasizing the need for global accountability in resolving conflicts and protecting human rights. “In this moment of global uncertainty, it is essential that nations come together to find peaceful solutions to ongoing conflicts and to uphold human dignity, justice, and the rule of law,” he said.
The Mirwaiz’s statements underscore the growing concerns within the Kashmiri community regarding the escalating violence in the Middle East and the ongoing struggles of Kashmiri political prisoners. As Kashmir continues to face political unrest, Mirwaiz’s call for peace, dialogue, and justice resonates with many who are hopeful for a peaceful resolution to regional conflicts.
