Mirwaiz of Kashmir supports Pope Leo's stand on war, urges world leaders to unite for justice

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Friday said stand taken by Pope Leo is commendable, and urged religious leaders across the world to unite behind such efforts for global peace and justice.

Mirwaiz addressed Friday congregation at historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar emphasized that during a grave global crisis, it is not only important but the responsibility of religious and spiritual figures across all communities and faiths to speak in one voice for humanity.


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"Stand taken by Pope Leo is commendable, and urged religious leaders across the world to unite behind such efforts for global peace and justice, said Mirwaiz. He further stated that they must stand up to power, condemn war and aggression, and advocate for peace, dialogue, and justice as the only viable path forward.

Mirwaiz said that this year the sacred journey of Hajj comes at a time when the world, especially the Middle East, is passing through a period of deep turmoil.

"In Iran, Lebanon, and Palestine, immense suffering, bloodshed, and uncertainty are being witnessed. Innocent lives continue to be lost, people are living in constant fear, and entire populations are being displaced from their homes," said Mirwaiz adding, "aggression by Israel, supported by the United States despite ceasefire commitments, continues unabated."

Mirwaiz said that Hajj is not merely an individual prayer, but a collective moment for the Muslim Ummah to raise its voice before Allah for peace and justice.


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Mirwaiz said unless the "long-standing occupation of Palestinians and the resultant injustices" are resolved in accordance with principles of natural justice and international law and which is the root cause of the ongoing crisis, lasting peace in the region will remain elusive.

Referring to diplomatic initiatives, Mirwaiz said that efforts being made by Pakistan, supported by Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, to de-escalate tensions and push for peace are also commendable. “We pray that these sincere efforts bear fruit, as the entire world looks towards them with hope to restore peace and stability,” he said.