Pakistan’s Armed Forces have reaffirmed their unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) on Youm-e-Istehsal. The military leadership reiterated its commitment to the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination while emphasizing that lasting peace in South Asia depends on resolving the Kashmir dispute in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The statement was issued on Youm-e-Istehsal to express solidarity with the people of IIOJK and to highlight Pakistan’s longstanding position on the Kashmir issue.
Military Leadership Reaffirms Solidarity
The statement was issued jointly by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, and the Armed Forces of Pakistan.
The military leadership reaffirmed its support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. According to the statement, this remains an inalienable right recognized under international law and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Furthermore, the Armed Forces reiterated their commitment to standing with the people of Kashmir in what they described as their struggle for freedom.
Youm-e-Istehsal Marks Revocation of Article 370
Pakistan observes Youm-e-Istehsal every year on August 5.
The day commemorates India’s decision in 2019 to revoke Article 370 of its Constitution and reorganize Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories.
This year marks seven years since that constitutional change.
Pakistan maintains that the move altered the disputed region’s legal status. The country continues to observe the day in solidarity with the people of IIOJK.
Concerns Raised Over Situation in IIOJK
The military leadership expressed concern over the continuing situation in IIOJK.
According to the statement, the region remains under military presence. It also alleged widespread human rights violations and attempts to change the demographic composition of the territory.
“The continued illegal occupation of the IIOJK by Indian security forces, marked by military siege, rampant human rights violations and attempts to alter the demographic composition of the territory, remains a matter of serious concern.”
The statement further added:
“Such actions, coupled with provocative rhetoric and belligerent posturing, serve only to exacerbate regional instability and perpetuate human suffering.”
Call for Peaceful Resolution
The Armed Forces stated that sustainable peace in South Asia requires a just and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.
According to the statement, any lasting settlement should reflect the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and remain consistent with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The military leadership maintained that resolving the dispute through peaceful means remains essential for regional stability.
Tribute to Kashmiri Martyrs
The statement concluded by paying tribute to those who lost their lives in IIOJK.
It reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued support for the Kashmiri people and their cause.
“The people and Armed Forces of Pakistan pay solemn tribute to the martyrs of IIOJK and reiterate their enduring commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Kashmiri people in their just and rightful struggle for freedom.”
The message reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding position on Kashmir while emphasizing solidarity with the people of the region on the occasion of Youm-e-Istehsal.
