The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has voiced serious concern over the escalating security situation in South Asia, underscoring the need to uphold international agreements including the United Nations Charter, international law, and notably, the Indus Waters Treaty.
In a high-level briefing at the United Nations headquarters in New York, a Pakistani parliamentary delegation updated OIC ambassadors on the recent Indo-Pak conflict and its aftermath.
Addressing the OIC permanent representatives, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari firmly rejected India’s attempt to blame Pakistan for the Pahalgam incident without a proper investigation or evidence. He criticised the hasty allegations, asserting that they were employed to justify unlawful military operations by India targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Expressing grave concern over India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari warned that India’s move to weaponise water resources against Pakistan “cannot be allowed to become normal.” He stressed that such belligerence threatens peace and security in the region.
The former foreign minister thanked OIC member states for their efforts in conflict de-escalation, mediation, and the ceasefire. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace, tolerance, and diplomacy, calling for the restoration of the Indus Waters Treaty, respect for the ceasefire, and the resumption of comprehensive dialogue with India.
Bilawal Bhutto also lauded the OIC’s continued support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising that a just and lasting resolution of the Kashmir issue is vital for peace in South Asia. He appealed to the member states to uphold their principled support for the Kashmiri people’s legitimate rights, particularly the right to self-determination in line with UN resolutions.
In response, the OIC countries appreciated Pakistan’s transparent briefing and diplomatic efforts aimed at peaceful dispute resolution. They expressed full solidarity with Pakistan and the Kashmiri people, reaffirming their support for resolving outstanding issues in accordance with UN mandates.
