COAS calls for urgent action on Kashmir, Palestine during peacekeeping forum

The conference, hosted for the first time in Pakistan, includes UN secretary-general for Peace Operations

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir urged world powers to take immediate action regarding the humanitarian crises faced by Kashmiris and Palestinians. 

His comments came during the 28th annual conference of the International Association of Peacekeeping Training Centers at the Center for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) in Islamabad on Monday.

This statement is particularly significant as Israel continues its military offensive in Palestine, which has reportedly resulted in over 43,374 Palestinian deaths and more than 102,261 injuries since October 7, 2023, according to the Palestinian health ministry. The toll includes 33 deaths reported within the last 24 hours. 

In Kashmir, there has been a marked increase in violence following the new government formation, exacerbating tensions in the region.

Since the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status on August 5, 2019, India has intensified its occupation, implementing policies aimed at altering the demographic and political landscape.

The conference, hosted for the first time in Pakistan from November 4 to 8, includes notable attendees such as UN Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix and Pakistan's Foreign Secretary. 

During his address, General Munir highlighted that despite various efforts by the United Nations and other organisations to foster peace, the ongoing struggles of the people in Kashmir and Palestine underline the need for sustained efforts towards resolution.

Lacroix commended Pakistan for its contributions to UN peacekeeping missions and expressed appreciation for its role in hosting the conference.