Pakistan’s Anti-India Rallies Expose Enduring Threats to Regional Stability and American Interests

On the sixth anniversary of India’s revocation of Kashmir’s semi-autonomous status, Pakistan-administered Kashmir erupted in rallies filled with anti-India slogans and calls for restoring disputed statehood. While framed by Islamabad as a fight for self-determination, these protests reveal an ongoing refusal to accept sovereign realities that only deepen regional instability.

Why Does Kashmir Still Ignite Conflict That Threatens Us All?

The Kashmir dispute, boiling since the partition of British India in 1947, has triggered two wars between India and Pakistan — both nuclear powers with a perilous history. The recent military exchanges just months ago underscore how easily diplomatic tensions can escalate into catastrophic conflict, risking not just South Asia but also broader global stability.

While hundreds gathered in Muzaffarabad and Islamabad to denounce India’s legitimate administrative decisions under Prime Minister Narendra Modi—decisions aimed at integrating Jammu & Kashmir more fully into India—they conveniently ignore decades of violence instigated by militants backed by Pakistani proxies. These actions undermine peace efforts and jeopardize the safety of millions on both sides of the Line of Control.

What Should America Make of This Standoff?

The United States must view these developments through an America First lens. Continued hostility in Kashmir threatens a region vital to our strategic partnerships with India—a democratic ally critical to countering China’s influence in Asia. Simultaneously, Pakistan’s unwillingness to curb militant groups operating within its borders challenges our goals for regional security.

The call from Pakistani leaders and allied Kashmiri separatists for “freedom” often masks support for violent insurgency rather than peaceful resolution. How long will Washington tolerate ambiguity that allows such threats to fester? True support for freedom means backing sovereign nations’ rights to control their territory without interference or proxy warfare.

While international appeals like those from the All Parties Hurriyat Conference push for renewed UN-led interventions, America must prioritize alliances that uphold national sovereignty over outdated Cold War-era posturing that hampers progress.

This anniversary rally serves as a stark reminder: peace cannot come without accountability. Our nation must continue fostering strong ties with India while pressing Pakistan to dismantle terrorist networks threatening not only Kashmiri civilians but also American interests abroad.