India Applauds US-Iran Ceasefire Amid Celebrations in Kashmir
India's Response to the Ceasefire Agreement
People raise slogans as they gather in response to the ceasefire agreement in Pulwama, J&K, on Wednesday. (Photo:PTI)
New Delhi, Apr 8: On Wednesday, India expressed its approval of the recently established two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, emphasizing the need for "de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy" to foster enduring peace in the West Asian region.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "We welcome the ceasefire agreement and hope it paves the way for lasting peace in West Asia. As we have consistently advocated, de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy are crucial for swiftly ending the ongoing conflict."
According to the MEA, "The ongoing conflict has inflicted significant suffering on the populace and disrupted global energy supplies and trade networks. We anticipate that the freedom of navigation and the global flow of commerce will remain uninterrupted through the Strait of Hormuz."
Both Iran and the US have consented to a conditional 14-day ceasefire, which includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for shipping activities.
Celebrations in Kashmir
Following the announcement of the US-Iran ceasefire, jubilant celebrations erupted across various regions in Kashmir, with many hailing it as a "victory" for Iran.
In particular, hundreds gathered in Shia-majority areas of the valley to celebrate the ceasefire.
Celebrations were notably vibrant in Saidakadal, Zadibal, Budgam, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Pulwama, and Bandipora districts, where people waved Iranian flags, expressed their joy, and set off firecrackers. They also distributed Kashmiri kehwa as part of the festivities.
Many participants regarded the ceasefire as a triumph for Iran over the US and Israel.
Political Reactions
In the political arena, the Opposition Congress party has criticized the central government regarding Pakistan's involvement in facilitating the ceasefire, labeling it a "significant setback" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "personalized diplomacy."
The Congress party further asserted that Modi's "cowardice is evident in his silence not only regarding Israel's aggressive stance but also concerning the unacceptable language used by his counterpart in the White House."
Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary in charge of communications, remarked, "The role played by Pakistan in achieving the ceasefire represents a serious setback to both the substance and style of Mr. Modi's highly personalized diplomacy."