Bilawal Bhutto Faces Challenge Over Pahalgam Attack Remarks at UN
During a recent press interaction at the United Nations, Pakistan People's Party Chairman and National Assembly member Bilawal Bhutto was confronted by a journalist over his comments about the Pahalgam terror attack. Bhutto had stated that the attack was being politically manipulated to demonize Muslims in India. A US journalist responded by highlighting the presence of Muslim Indian military officers who briefed during the conflict, leaving Bhutto momentarily speechless.
Journalist References Colonel Sofiya Qureshi in Response
In response to Bhutto's allegation, the journalist cited instances where Muslim Indian officers, notably Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, represented India's perspective during military briefings related to Operation Sindoor. Colonel Qureshi's role has been widely recognized as an inspiration, and her participation challenged Bhutto's generalization.
Bhutto conceded the point by acknowledging the journalist's statement but quickly shifted to making broad, unsupported allegations against India before the journalist could follow up.
Bhutto’s Political Positions and Recent Statements
Besides this episode, Bilawal Bhutto acknowledged ongoing challenges Islamabad faces in promoting the Kashmir issue at international forums. He is currently leading a Pakistani delegation abroad in a gesture mirroring India’s recent global outreach following the recent regional conflict.
Bhutto has also sparked controversy with remarks following India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty after the deadly Pahalgam attack, stating, "The Indus is ours and will remain ours - either our water will flow through it, or their blood." This statement was widely condemned as provocative and politically immature.
Criticism From Indian Political Leaders
Leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM), Asaduddin Owaisi, criticized Bhutto’s incendiary rhetoric sharply. He reminded Bhutto of the tragic deaths of his mother, former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, and his grandfather, former President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, emphasizing that terrorism was responsible. Owaisi urged Bhutto to avoid provocative language and recognize the complexities involved, stating, "Terrorism killed her. If he doesn't get that, what will you explain to him?"
Context and Implications
- Bilawal Bhutto: Chairman of Pakistan People's Party and former Foreign Minister.
- Pahalgam Attack: Terror attack resulting in 26 civilian deaths, leading to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.
- Operation Sindoor: Indian military operation in the region, with Muslim officers like Colonel Sofiya Qureshi participating in official communications.
- Indus Waters Treaty: A critical agreement suspended by India following the attack, intensifying diplomatic strain.
This interaction at the UN highlights the complex narratives surrounding the Kashmir conflict and reflects ongoing diplomatic confrontations between India and Pakistan. The references to Muslim Indian officers challenge broad political narratives that seek to generalize or politicize ethnic and religious identities in the region.
