ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and regional stability while issuing a stern warning to his Indian counterpart, asserting that Pakistan is fully prepared to defend its sovereignty with a swift and decisive response to any threat.
Asif’s remarks came after India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh cautioned Pakistan against any “misadventure” amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, according to Indian media reports.
Posting on X, Asif said: “The illusion of space for war between two nuclear states is inconceivable and would have drastic consequences.”
The Defence Ninister recalled the war between the two countries last May, which followed India’s unprovoked attack on Pakistan after the Pahalgam incident in the IIOJK.
Pakistan denied involvement in the attack, called for a neutral investigation, and condemned India’s subsequent missile strikes, which killed civilians and security personnel.
In retaliation, Pakistan downed seven Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale, destroyed dozens of drones, and targeted an S-400 defence system. The conflict ended with a US-brokered ceasefire on May 10.
Asif criticized New Delhi’s repeated allegations, saying they reflect strategic anxiety rather than strength. “Such threat-mongering is part of a predictable pattern externalising internal fragility and provoking escalation under the garb of unsubstantiated allegations for vested political interests,” he stated.
He added, “History is a stark reminder that miscalculation has consequences. Marka-e-Haq remains fresh in our minds. Next time, our response will be even more forceful and decisive.”
Asif concluded: “Pakistan remains committed to peace and regional stability, but its resolve to defend sovereignty is absolute, its preparedness complete, and its response will be swift, calibrated, and decisive.
Let me remind Rajnath Singh that the illusion of space for war between two nuclear states is inconceivable and has drastic consequences. India would be better served by addressing its own strategic and diplomatic challenges.”
