NEW YORK: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Group has voiced its deep concern over the deteriorating security environment in South Asia following an attack on tourists in the Pahalgam area of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
In a joint press statement, the OIC Group noted that India’s baseless allegations are inflaming tensions in the already volatile region.
On 22 April, gunmen attacked tourists in the occupied Kashmir and killed 26 people. India swiftly blamed Pakistan for the attack without presenting any credible evidence.
Pakistan condemned the attack and strongly rejected the Indian government’s baseless accusations.
A day after the Pahalgam incident on 23 April, India’s Cabinet Committee on Security approved measures including the closure of the Wagah-Attari border crossing and the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for an independent investigation into the incident.
Islamabad also warned that any attempt by India to stop or divert the Indus River waters would be considered an “act of war”.
The OIC Group commended Pakistan’s consistent demonstration of restraint and its commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes.
The Group commended Pakistan’s stance of avoiding escalation and its continued openness to diplomatic engagement, grounded in mutual respect and the legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
It reaffirmed its steadfast solidarity with the government and people of Pakistan, while calling on India to halt its hostile rhetoric and aggressive actions that jeopardise both regional and global peace and security.
The OIC Group reiterated its firm stance against terrorism, unequivocally condemning it in all its forms and manifestations. It also rejected any attempts to associate terrorism with any particular country, race, religion, culture, or nationality.
Referencing past decisions and declarations of the Islamic Summits and the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers—especially resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir—the Group emphasised that the unresolved Kashmir dispute remains a central issue threatening peace and stability in South Asia.
It noted the people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to be denied their inalienable right to self-determination as enshrined in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
The Group also commended the offer of good offices by the UN Secretary-General and urged the international community, to take immediate and credible measures to de-escalate the situation.
