Karachi, May 5, 2025: The Society for Global Moderation (SGM), has expressed deep concern over the recent escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan following the tragic Pahalgam incident in Indian-occupied Kashmir.
In a strong appeal for calm, Syed Jawaid Iqbal, Chairman of the Society for Global Moderation, stated, “We express our deep concern over the recent escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan after the tragic Pahalgam incident in Indian-occupied Kashmir. In these critical times, I urge the political and military leadership of both countries to act with utmost restraint and show maturity and responsibility in handling the sensitive situation. After all, we need to remind ourselves that war has never been a viable solution to long-festering disputes, least of all between two nuclear-armed neighbours whose over 1.7 billion people have already suffered far too much from never-ending conflicts.”
He emphasized that the legacy of unresolved issues, mistrust, and periodic flare-ups between the two neighbours is well known, but that “continued hostility and inflammatory rhetoric, coupled with media outcry, can only push both nations closer to a path of destruction, not progress.”
“In the given scenario,” Iqbal warned, “any miscalculation can lead to consequences neither side desires, which the region can ill afford. There is no denying that every war leaves a trail of human tragedy, economic setback, and long-term instability behind. At a time when both countries face pressing challenges, the diversion of precious national resources towards confrontation rather than cooperation is unsustainable and unwise.”
He further noted that the people of both countries, already burdened with serious challenges such as malnutrition, poverty, climate change, and youth unemployment, deserve a future defined by peace, prosperity, and shared progress. “This,” he said, “can only be achieved through sustained dialogue, confidence-building measures, and a commitment to resolving disputes diplomatically and peacefully.”
Iqbal concluded with a strong call for statesmanship and vision: “A stable and cooperative South Asia is in the interest of both countries and is also vital for regional and global peace. The Society for Global Moderation appeals to the leadership of both countries to demonstrate true statesmanship by rising above political expediency and hard-hitting diplomacy. In place of reacting hastily or angrily, this is indeed a moment to pause, reflect, and re-engage, giving peace a real chance for the greater interests of the people.”
“In this spirit,” he added, “let wisdom prevail over hostility, and let diplomacy replace confrontation, as restraint, dialogue—not war—is the need of the hour.”
The Society for Global Moderation (previously known as The Moderates) is a private sector thinktank that was established in 2003. It promotes and strengthens tolerance, interfaith harmony and democracy.
