Makkah: The Muslim World League (MWL) has shown strong endorsement for the newly declared 'ceasefire agreement' between India and Pakistan.
In an official announcement from the General Secretariat, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, the MWL Secretary-General and Chairman of the Organisation of Muslim Scholars, praised the leadership of both countries for their wise and responsible choice to focus on diplomacy and dialogue.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa commended the prompt and constructive response from the two neighboring nations, accentuating their dedication to peace and stability in the region. He referred to this decision as a positive move that aligns with the greater national interests of both countries, stressing the importance of preventing unnecessary escalation and maintaining tranquility.
The Secretary-General also recognized the significance of diplomacy and direct communication between India and Pakistan in easing tensions. He celebrated both nations for opting for dialogue instead of conflict, highlighting that this decision reflects a mutual commitment to peace and understanding. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa underlined the importance of constructive engagement in addressing conflicts.
Additionally, the MWL reiterated its full support for all initiatives aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and long-term prosperity for the people of Pakistan and India.
"His Excellency further praised the rapid and constructive actions taken by both nations, demonstrating a collective commitment to peace and stability in the region. He confirmed the Muslim World League's unwavering support for all initiatives that encourage peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding, and long-lasting prosperity for the people of Pakistan and India," the statement indicated.
The organization highlighted that such diplomatic efforts are crucial for nurturing stability, security, and sustainable development in the region.
In the announcement, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa voiced hope that the ceasefire would lay the groundwork for further diplomatic interactions between the two nations.
He reiterated the Muslim World League's commitment to backing any initiative that fosters peace, understanding, and harmony among nations, particularly within the South Asian region.
On May 7, early in the morning, the Indian Armed Forces initiated Operation Sindoor, targeting nine sites of terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK).
This operation was a retaliatory measure in response to the terror incident on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians, including one Nepali national, lost their lives.
Following India's operation, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated, resulting in intensified cross-border shelling from Pakistan and retaliatory actions from the Indian Armed Forces.
On Saturday, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations had reached out to his Indian counterpart. The two parties consented to cease all military actions on land, at sea, and in the air, starting from 5 PM.
Misri mentioned that directives have been issued to uphold the ceasefire, with another round of DGMO-level discussions set for May 12 at noon.
However, shortly after both nations agreed to halt all firing and military activities on land, in the air, and at sea, reports surfaced of Pakistan breaching the ceasefire, with Indian air defense intercepting Pakistani drones amidst a blackout in Srinagar.
Visible red streaks and audible explosions were reported as India's air defense intercepted Pakistani drones during a blackout in Udhampur. A blackout was also implemented in Pathankot and Ferozepur in Punjab and Jaisalmer and Barmer in Rajasthan.
At a special briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that India takes "very serious note of these violations." India urged Pakistan to take appropriate measures to address these breaches and manage the situation with seriousness and responsibility.
