Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif delivered a stern warning to his Indian counterpart, Rajnath Singh, emphasizing that any conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors would be unimaginable and carry severe repercussions. His remarks come amid escalating tensions, particularly around the anniversary of the Pahalgam attack, which Pakistan has labeled a “staged false flag operation” that failed to convince the international community.
Asif criticized India’s repeated aggressive rhetoric, describing it not as a sign of strength but as an indication of strategic insecurity. He urged New Delhi to focus on resolving its internal strategic and diplomatic challenges rather than engaging in provocative posturing.
Recalling Pakistan Armed Forces’ response during last year’s Marka-e-Haq operation, Asif warned that any miscalculations would have serious consequences. He stated, “Marka-e-Haq remains fresh in our minds. The next time, our response will be even more forceful and decisive. Let there be no ambiguity.” While affirming Pakistan’s dedication to peace and regional stability, he made it clear that the country is fully prepared to protect its sovereignty with a swift, measured, and resolute response if provoked.
The tensions between Pakistan and India intensified following the April 22 Pahalgam attack. India reacted aggressively the following day by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, cancelling visas for Pakistani nationals, closing the Wagah-Attari border crossing, and shutting down the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. Both countries subsequently reduced diplomatic staff.
Pakistan denied the allegations and responded through its National Security Committee by halting trade with India and closing its airspace to Indian aircraft. The standoff escalated in early May when the Indian Air Force targeted civilian sites in Pakistan, prompting retaliatory action from the Pakistan Air Force, which shot down at least six Indian jets, including three French-made Rafales.
India further escalated by striking military targets, leading Pakistan to launch Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, targeting Indian military installations, airbases, and missile storage facilities. The conflict drew significant international attention, with diplomatic efforts led by then US President Donald Trump resulting in a ceasefire on May 10. Following the ceasefire, both sides gradually reduced troop deployments along the border.
In a significant development, Asif’s statement serves as a direct warning to India against repeating aggressive actions, highlighting the catastrophic risks of miscalculations between nuclear-armed states. His message underscores Pakistan’s dual approach: a firm commitment to peace and stability, alongside readiness to defend its sovereignty decisively if necessary.
