Jammu, March 27 (NationPress) Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, on Friday called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to utilize India's diplomatic influence to bring an end to the ongoing war in West Asia.

He emphasized that the conflict represents a significant humanitarian crisis that directly affects India. Abdullah urged PM Modi to take advantage of India's robust diplomatic ties with prominent global powers to address the ongoing turmoil in West Asia and reduce the human suffering in the region.

His comments were made during the ongoing Budget Session of the Assembly, where he highlighted the escalating conflict in the Middle East, which has impacted countless lives across the region and beyond.

Highlighting the humanitarian toll, the Chief Minister pointed out that while international discussions often pivot around regime changes, strategic concerns like the Strait of Hormuz, and increasing oil prices, there remains a disconcerting lack of focus on the ongoing hardships faced by individuals in Iran in recent weeks.

He stressed that the crisis has direct repercussions for India, with many Indian nationals, including those from Jammu and Kashmir, currently stranded in Iran.

Additionally, he mentioned the noticeable consequences at home, such as extended lines at fuel stations and the emotional strain experienced by citizens.

"As representatives of the populace, we have every right to voice our concerns in this Assembly," he declared, acknowledging that while the Assembly may not possess the power to halt the war, India's diplomatic stature offers it a distinctive opportunity to aid in restoring peace.

Abdullah referenced India's relationships with nations such as the United States, Israel, Iran, and other regional authorities, expressing confidence in the Central Government's capacity to play a constructive role. He encouraged making an appeal to the Prime Minister to utilize these international relationships and diplomatic channels to expedite the resolution of the conflict.

Furthermore, he stated that concluding the war would not only alleviate the suffering of those in affected areas but also foster peaceful coexistence among nations.

The Chief Minister vehemently condemned what he characterized as an "unjust and illegal war imposed on Iran" and extended condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in the conflict, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his associates.

Reiterating his plea, he insisted that the Indian government must exert all possible efforts to promptly end the war, asserting that "the sooner it concludes, the greater the benefit for humanity."

He framed the issue as a humanitarian crisis rather than a religious conflict, stating, "It is not a single religion that is suffering — it is humanity that is suffering."

He concluded by expressing confidence that the entire Jammu and Kashmir Assembly would rally behind any initiative by India to contribute meaningfully to ending the conflict.