India is ‘licking its wounds’: Khawaja Asif

ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday asserted that Pakistan’s armed forces stand “like an iron wall” against India, implying that the neighboring country is currently “licking its wounds” after being forced to retreat and raise calls for de-escalation following the rise in tensions in the sub-continent.

Speaking to media, the minister outlined three key points for potential talks with India about addressing the longstanding issue of terrorism, preserving the Indus Waters Treaty and resolving the Kashmir dispute.

“Pakistan has been the biggest victim of terrorism for 30 years,” Asif said, calling it “the height of irony” that a terrorism-affected country like Pakistan faces terrorism allegations. He ruled out any possibility of suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a vital agreement. He also took a swipe at India’s international isolation, stating: “No one stands with India now except Israel.”

From ‘Rafale hunter’ to ‘national crush’: Who is Air Vice Marshal Aurangzeb Ahmed?

The minister welcomed US President Donald Trump’s recent comments about discussing Kashmir, calling it “another development” in the ongoing situation. “There’s a golden opportunity for Pakistan and India to resolve the Kashmir issue,” he added.

The defence minister maintained that “all issues need sustainable solutions now,” suggesting the current geopolitical climate presents an opportunity for lasting resolutions.

During yesterday’s joint press conferences by the armed forces, DG ISPR Ahmad Sharif stated that Pakistan did not propose ceasefire, and was willing to respond as it did so, following a lot of restraint shown earlier. The DGMOs of both countries are set to meet today to talk about the future course of action.