OIC declaration reaffirms support for Kashmiris’ self-determination

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the just struggle of the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir for their inalienable right to self-determination, as enshrined in the United Nations Security Council resolutions.

This was said in the declaration adopted at the conclusion of the two-day 51st session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, held in Istanbul, Türkiye on June 21–22.

The OIC expressed full solidarity with the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, condemned the grave and systematic human rights violations committed by Indian forces in IIOJK, and reiterated its call for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council and OIC resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

The declaration also expressed serious concern over the recent military escalation in South Asia, including what it termed “unjustified strikes” by India on multiple locations in Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could destabilize the already volatile region.

The OIC stressed strict adherence to agreements, including the Indus Waters Treaty, and called for broad-based and meaningful dialogue between Pakistan and India for the peaceful resolution of all outstanding disputes, especially the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, which continues to threaten peace and stability in South Asia.

On Palestine, the Istanbul Declaration strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression and genocide in Gaza, as well as systematic attempts to displace Palestinians and alter the legal and demographic status of Al-Quds Al-Sharif. It reaffirmed the centrality of the Palestinian cause and called for an immediate ceasefire and comprehensive political solution based on a two-state framework.

The declaration also condemned the Israeli attacks on Iran, Syria, and Lebanon and called for urgent international intervention to halt the escalation. It underscored the need to hold Israel accountable for its crimes and establish mechanisms to prevent future acts of aggression.

In addition to supporting the Palestinian and Kashmiri causes, the OIC reiterated its commitment to counter growing Islamophobia worldwide and called on the international community to take effective measures to combat religious hatred, racism, and incitement against Muslims.

The 51st OIC session concluded with a renewed call for unity among Muslim nations and a stronger role for the organization in shaping a fair, just, and rules-based international order amidst growing global fragmentation.