Omar Abdullah, Vice President of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), expressed grave concerns over escalating tensions in the Middle East following the death of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah. Speaking to reporters, Abdullah stated, “After what happened yesterday, it seems as if the clouds of war are now visible in the entire region.”
Opposition to Violence in Gaza and Lebanon
Abdullah emphasized the need to end the killings of innocent civilians in Gaza and Lebanon. He criticized the ongoing military actions by Israel, reiterating that the JKNC has consistently opposed such bombings since last year. He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and global leaders to exert pressure on Israel to restore peace. “The series of killings and injuring innocent people should be stopped, whether it is in Gaza, Lebanon, or anywhere else,” he said.
Mehbooba Mufti Cancels Campaign in Solidarity
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, head of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), also reacted to Nasrallah’s death by canceling her election campaign. She expressed solidarity with the people of Palestine and Lebanon during this time of grief. In a post on X, Mufti stated, “Cancelling my campaign tomorrow in solidarity with the martyrs of Lebanon and Gaza, especially Hassan Nasrallah. We stand with the people of Palestine and Lebanon in this hour of immense grief and exemplary resistance.”
Israeli Airstrikes Confirm Nasrallah’s Death
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that Hassan Nasrallah was killed in airstrikes carried out in Beirut. In a statement, the IDF claimed, “Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorize the world.”
Following the announcement of Nasrallah’s death, a protest march took place in Budgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in opposition to the Israeli actions. Participants expressed their outrage and solidarity with those affected by the violence in Lebanon and Gaza.