Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah vocally condemned the ongoing conflict involving Iran during a legislative assembly session on March 27. He termed the situation an “illegitimate and illegal war,” raising alarms about its humanitarian implications and regional effects. Speaking to the assembly members, Abdullah stated, “Honourable Speaker Sir, regarding the way an illegitimate and illegal war was imposed on Iran, I don’t think anyone would stand up and speak in its favour.”

Humanitarian Concerns Raised

Abdullah expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives associated with the conflict, highlighting the tragic death of Iran’s former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In his remarks, he said, “The way humanity was murdered and the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Khamenei Sahab, many of his companions, and close relatives were martyred, no amount of condemnation is enough.” He urged the assembly to recognize the heavy toll the conflict has taken on innocent civilians, particularly children, which he described as unprecedented in recent history.

Critique of Global Powers

During his speech, Abdullah questioned the contradictory narratives surrounding the conflict, particularly those from major global powers. He noted the confusing messages emanating from American leadership, saying, “If you listen to the American President, he himself probably doesn’t realize why this war was imposed on Iran. In the morning, they talk about regime change; in the afternoon, they talk about the Strait of Hormuz; and in the evening, they talk about oil prices.”

Impact on India and Local Sentiments

Abdullah emphasized the ramifications of the conflict on India, highlighting that many citizens are currently stranded in Iran. He remarked, “Today, there are long queues outside our petrol pumps; that has also affected us directly.” He also addressed the emotional impact on the people of Jammu and Kashmir, stating that their feelings and sentiments have been hurt by the ongoing situation.

Call for Diplomatic Intervention

The Chief Minister urged for a diplomatic resolution, asking Prime Minister Narendra Modi to leverage his relationships with Iran and neighboring nations to help end the conflict. Abdullah affirmed, “We know the PM has good relations with Iran and neighboring countries, and we appeal from this house to the PM that he uses his relations to bring peace to this war and bring this war to an end as soon as possible.”

Party’s Stance and Assembly Protests

Concluding his address, Abdullah reiterated his condemnation of the conflict on behalf of his colleagues, asserting their shared stance against the war’s legitimacy. Meanwhile, members of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference staged protests inside and outside the Assembly, expressing solidarity with Iran following the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. MLA Tanvir Sadiq highlighted their stance, stating no country should have the right to attack another, calling for strong condemnation from India’s leadership.

Escalation of Tensions and Broader Impact

The conflict intensified after the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during a joint military operation by the US and Israel on February 28, resulting in retaliatory strikes by Iran and leading to a global energy crisis exacerbated by disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz. The ongoing situation also prompted protests from Bharatiya Janata Party Yuva Morcha and BJP activists in Jammu, who expressed various grievances.

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