Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, convened a dialogue with key U.S. think-tanks at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C., focusing on the recent tensions between Pakistan and India following an incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Ambassador Sheikh questioned the validity of India’s prompt allegations against Pakistan concerning the Pahalgam incident, noting the lack of evidence despite quick action with a First Information Report. He referenced the 2019 Pulwama incident to highlight Pakistan’s past efforts for de-escalation.

Addressing the gathering, the Ambassador criticized India’s unilateral actions in IIOJK since August 2019, which he described as creating a repressive environment. He voiced concerns over India’s aggressive rhetoric and its potential threat to regional stability, stressing that Pakistan should not be blamed for India’s internal challenges.

Ambassador Sheikh also addressed the issue of the Indus Waters Treaty, condemning India’s unilateral decision as contrary to treaty provisions and a threat to Pakistan’s agrarian economy. He called for an independent inquiry into the Pahalgam incident, potentially involving the UN or major global powers, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to counter-terrorism and regional peace.

Expressing gratitude to global allies for their support, the Ambassador highlighted the crisis as an opportunity for international powers to address the Kashmir dispute. He suggested that resolving this conflict could enhance President Trump’s legacy in global peace efforts.

The session concluded with Ambassador Sheikh inviting think-tank representatives to contribute their perspectives, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in navigating the region’s complex challenges.