ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has expressed concern over ongoing tensions with India, emphasizing that the threat from its eastern neighbor remains significant. He accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of involvement in terrorist activities and claimed that India’s role in the Pahalgam incident is part of a larger pattern of subversive actions in Pakistan.
Speaking in an interview, Asif described Modi as a “terrorist,” referencing accusations from the US and Canada that have linked him to terrorism. “Modi is himself a terrorist. The US and Canada accused Modi of committing terrorism, and he did not deny his involvement in subversive activities,” said Asif, adding that India has been involved in destabilizing Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, regions facing unrest.
The Defence Minister also addressed the ongoing Pahalgam attack incident, suggesting that tensions remain high, and the threat from India is still unresolved. He reiterated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s offer for a neutral investigation into the attack and emphasized that such an inquiry would help de-escalate the situation. “If India accepts the offer for a neutral investigation into the Pahalgam attack, it would be a good thing,” Asif remarked, noting that tensions have not yet been eased.
While Pakistan remains committed to peace, Asif warned that any further escalation from India would be met with a strong response. He stated, “We do not want to escalate the tension, nor do we want to take the initiative in any action.” However, the Defence Minister made it clear that any infiltration or attacks from India would be met with a “strong response.”
Asif also spoke about Pakistan’s relationship with China, its neighbor to the north, noting that China understands the regional situation and stands in solidarity with Pakistan. He highlighted that Pakistan is open to international investigations into the Pahalgam incident and is keen to avoid military action if tensions can be resolved diplomatically.
The minister’s remarks reflect Pakistan’s resolve to address the tensions with India while emphasizing the need for peaceful solutions.
