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Shahid Afridi, former captain of the Pakistan national cricket team, has spoken out against India’s immediate blame on Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which left at least 27 tourists dead.
Speaking to the media in Dubai, Afridi called the accusations “premature and unsubstantiated,” stressing that pointing fingers without evidence only worsens an already fragile relationship between the two nuclear-armed nations.
“It’s unfortunate and unjustified to blame Pakistan without proof,” Afridi said. “There should be investigations before drawing conclusions, especially when the situation is this sensitive.”
Afridi also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives in Kashmir, adding that violence in the region — whether in occupied territories or within Pakistan — must be condemned by all.
His comments come amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan after the gun attack in Pahalgam. In its immediate aftermath, India accused Pakistan-based groups of orchestrating the strike, despite no public presentation of evidence to support the claim.
In response to the heightened strain, Afridi urged both countries to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy, rather than deepening hostilities.
“Dialogue is the only solution to our issues. Conflict brings no benefit to either side,” he said. “We must move beyond blame games and work towards peace for the sake of future generations.”
Keeping Sports Separate
Afridi also made a plea to keep sports, especially cricket, out of politics, highlighting how cultural and sporting ties have historically helped soften bilateral tensions.
“Cricket should not be made a victim of politics,” he stated. “The game brings people together and offers hope and unity. Let’s protect that.”
His appeal echoes longstanding sentiments among athletes and fans from both nations who have seen numerous cricket series postponed or cancelled due to political tensions over the years.
Tensions Escalate Rapidly
Since the Pahalgam attack, bilateral ties between India and Pakistan have plummeted to their lowest point in nearly two decades.
In a swift series of retaliatory measures, New Delhi suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, revoked visas for Pakistani nationals (except Sikh pilgrims), downgraded diplomatic ties, and shut the Wagah border crossing.
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Islamabad responded in kind, ordering the expulsion of Indian diplomats, halting visa issuance for Indian citizens, and closing the border crossing from its side.
Perhaps most concerning, Pakistan warned that any Indian attempt to divert water from the Indus River — a lifeline for millions in Pakistan — would be seen as an “act of war.”
“Water is a basic human right and a vital national interest. Violating this would cross a red line,” an unnamed Pakistani official stated.
Kashmir at the Core
At the heart of the ongoing conflict is the long-disputed territory of Kashmir, which has been divided between India and Pakistan since 1947.
Despite multiple UN resolutions calling for a plebiscite, India has yet to fulfill its commitment to allow Kashmiris the right to self-determination.
Afridi — who has spoken on Kashmir in the past — made it clear that peace in the region is impossible without addressing the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
“The world must not forget that Kashmir is a humanitarian issue,” Afridi said. “It’s about people, not just politics or borders.”
Call for Global Mediation
The rising tensions have alarmed the international community, with global bodies urging restraint. The United Nations has called for “maximum restraint” from both sides, amid fears of further escalation.
Afridi’s statements join a growing chorus of voices from civil society and sports communities advocating for peace and dialogue.
As a national icon and internationally known sportsman, Afridi’s remarks carry significant weight, particularly among youth in both countries, many of whom look up to him as more than just a cricketer.
With diplomatic relations hanging by a thread, voices like Afridi’s serve as a reminder that even in the darkest of moments, peace remains an option — if both sides are willing to take it seriously.
