In a diplomatic snub, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi declined to engage in a conversation about Kashmir during his visit to Islamabad, Pakistan. The snub occurred during a joint press conference with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on April 22.
Sharif raised the issue of Kashmir, expressing gratitude to Raisi and the people of Iran for their support of the Kashmir cause. However, Raisi did not acknowledge Sharif’s remarks and remained silent on the matter throughout his own speech.
The Pakistani Prime Minister’s attempt to discuss Kashmir highlights the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan over the disputed region. India claims the entirety of Kashmir, while Pakistan controls a portion of it. The conflict has led to multiple wars and remains a source of friction between the two nations.
Iran’s stance on Kashmir has traditionally been one of neutrality, calling for a peaceful resolution through dialogue between India and Pakistan. However, the recent snub by President Raisi suggests that Iran may be shifting its position on the issue.
The snub has drawn mixed reactions from analysts. Some argue that it could be a sign of Iran’s growing closeness with India, while others believe it may be a response to Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia in the ongoing Yemen conflict.
