Srinagar, April 9 -- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the United States must "control Israel" to ensure the success of the ongoing ceasefire efforts in the Middle East, asserting that the conflict was not initiated by Iran but "imposed" on it.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event at SKICC Srinagar, the Chief Minister expressed concern over escalating tensions, particularly Israel's actions in Lebanon. "If the ceasefire fails, it will not be Iran's fault but it will only be Israel's responsibility. The US will have to rein in Israel," he said.

Referring to recent remarks by US President Donald Trump, CM Omar said the statements coming from Washington lack consistency. "He says one thing in the morning, another ...