Defence Minister warns of ‘forceful response’ to any Indian aggression

ISLAMABAD: The Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a stark warning regarding escalating tensions with India, stating that the next two to four days were critical for national security.

He stated that any violation of Pakistan’s land, air, or sea borders would be met with a forceful response. “We have taken the steps that should been taken. If they try to impose war, we will response forcefully”, Khawaja declared during a press briefing on Tuesday.

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The Defence Minister’s comment come amid heightened fears on infiltration or military action from India, particularly following the recent Pahalgam attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir.

Khawaja Asif assured that Pakistan’s three armed forces were fully prepared to protect the nation.

The Defence Minister noted that various countries, including China, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf nations, were actively working to avert any looming

the looming threat. “If something has to happen in two or four days, it will happen; otherwise, the threat will be averted”, he added.

United Nations weighs in

In response to the escalating crisis between the two nuclear-armed hostile neighbours, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed “deep concern” over the rising tensions.

The secretary-general stated that he was ready to support any initiative aimed at reducing tensions and resuming dialogue. “I firmly believe that complex issues can be resolved through dialogue”, he said.

The UN Secretary-General advised the two South Asian nations exercise caution and restraint, and to avoid any action that could exacerbate the situation.

The backdrop to the current crisis began with the Pahalgam attack in the Indian-occupied Kashmir on April 22, where 5 gunmen opened fire on tourists in the scenic region.

26 people, mainly men, died as a result and over 20 injured. Within minutes of the attack, India accused Pakistan of being behind the attack, leading to a diplomatic crisis.

The right-wing, Hindu-nationalist government of hardliner Narendra Modi suspended Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan, expelled Pakistani diplomats and closed its border.

Pakistan denied the accusations and in retaliation, suspended the Simla Agreement, restricted trade and closed its airspace.

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Border skirmishes broke out along the Line of Control (LoC) between the two neighbours subsequently, with each side accusing the other.

Both nations have been on high alert since, with the international community closely monitoring the nuclear-armed region; advocating for dialogue to prevent further escalation.