Pakistan’s military leadership on Thursday reaffirmed strong and unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), saying they stand firmly with Kashmiris in their struggle for freedom and self-determination.
On the occasion of Kashmir Solidarity Day, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, along with Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, issued a joint message on behalf of the Pakistan Armed Forces. They strongly condemned what they described as serious human rights violations in IIOJK, including unlawful killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and efforts to change the region’s demographic and political identity in violation of international law.
The military leadership stressed that lasting peace in South Asia is not possible without a fair and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. They said the issue must be settled in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people, urging the international community to take meaningful steps to ease their suffering.
Reaffirming their commitment, the armed forces said they remain determined to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while standing shoulder to shoulder with their Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their rightful struggle for dignity and freedom.
Kashmir Solidarity Day is being observed across Pakistan on Thursday, with people expressing unity with Kashmiris who continue to demand their right to self-determination under UN resolutions. Rallies, gatherings, and special events are being held nationwide to highlight the ongoing situation in IIOJK.
This year’s observance comes at a time when rights groups and officials say pressure on Kashmiris has intensified, with increased restrictions and alleged abuses aimed at suppressing the local freedom movement. The day is meant to draw global attention to the unresolved Kashmir dispute and encourage the world community to play an active role in finding a just solution.
Kashmiris in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, and across the world are also marking the day, renewing their pledge to continue their peaceful struggle until they achieve their internationally recognized right to self-determination.
