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Pakistan Defence Minister Warns of Potential Indian Military Action Amid Rising Tensions
Islamabad – Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has claimed that India may initiate a military strike along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, amid heightened tensions between the two countries following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, including 25 Indian nationals.
Speaking to the media in Islamabad on Monday, Asif said, “There are reports that India may strike at any point along the LoC. New Delhi will be given a befitting reply.” He further urged for an impartial investigation into the incident, stating it would help determine whether internal actors in India were involved and clarify the basis of New Delhi’s accusations.
The statement echoes an earlier warning by Pakistan’s Information Minister Atta Tarar, who had suggested that the 24–36 hours following the attack were particularly critical due to concerns about a potential Indian military response. However, no such action has materialized yet.
Pakistan Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir also addressed the rising hostilities on Monday, reiterating that the military is prepared to respond decisively to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty and national interests.
Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours have escalated sharply since the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which targeted a tourist group in the region. In response, India imposed a series of measures against Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Attari land border crossing, and downgrading of diplomatic ties.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, asserting that India would take “firm and decisive” action against those responsible and had granted the armed forces full operational autonomy regarding the response’s timing, method, and targets.
