SINGAPORE – Pakistan’s top military official, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, has urged the global community to support a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir dispute, calling it vital for lasting stability in South Asia.
Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue 2025 in Singapore, General Mirza emphasized that the conflict between Pakistan and India continues to threaten regional peace. He stated, “The Kashmir dispute, if left unresolved, remains the root cause of hostility between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.”
The CJCSC also strongly criticized India’s handling of water-sharing agreements, accusing New Delhi of using shared rivers as a political weapon. “India’s weaponisation of water is a clear violation of international law and could be treated as an act of war,” he warned, referencing Pakistan’s National Security Committee policy.
Tensions have surged since the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir, which India blamed on Pakistan without evidence. In response, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, cancelled visas, and ordered the closure of diplomatic missions. Pakistan responded with countermeasures and launched “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos” in early May, targeting Indian military assets.
General Mirza stressed the need for a strong crisis management mechanism and early intervention frameworks to avoid future escalations. “Mutual restraint, respect for red lines, and meaningful diplomacy are key to lasting peace,” he said, also calling on world powers to restore formal dialogue between India and Pakistan.
Pakistan’s participation in the summit highlights its commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue, not confrontation. The CJCSC’s remarks follow a US-brokered ceasefire in May, after four days of clashes, and renewed calls by President Donald Trump to mediate the Kashmir issue.