Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that a military clash between India and Pakistan may be just days away. He said that the recent surge in India-Pakistan tensions after the deadly Pahalgam attack has brought the region to the brink of war.
Last week, a brutal assault in Indian-held Kashmir killed 26 people, including one Nepali national. The incident sparked anger across India, with officials pointing fingers at Pakistan. In an interview with Reuters, Khawaja Asif confirmed that Pakistan had reinforced its military positions in response.
“We are now in a situation where something serious could happen at any moment,” he said. “Strategic decisions have been made accordingly.” He noted that the military had briefed the government about a possible Indian strike. However, he did not reveal the exact basis for fearing an immediate attack.
India blamed two Pakistanis for the incident, but Islamabad denied involvement. The Pakistani government has demanded a neutral probe into the matter. Asif stressed that Pakistan supports a fair and independent investigation.
On a television program, the Defence Minister gave an even more alarming message. He said, “The clouds of war are gathering. The current India-Pakistan tensions could explode into full-scale war within the next two to four days.” He warned that if India initiates any aggression, Pakistan will retaliate with full strength.
Speaking again to Reuters, Asif emphasized that Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities are only for defensive use. “We would only consider using them if our survival as a nation is under direct threat,” he stated.
From his hometown of Sialkot, Khawaja Asif also criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He claimed that many voices inside India believe the attack may have been staged for political advantage. “Just like Pulwama, this incident also looks suspicious,” he said. He called for an international inquiry under the United Nations or led by regional powers, supporting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s proposal.
Khawaja Asif said Pakistan believes in global institutions and is fully ready for a transparent investigation into the Pahalgam attack. “The event is a fabrication,” he said. “We welcome the world to see the truth for themselves.”
In a shocking move after the Pahalgam tragedy, India suspended the historic Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs made this announcement after a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Modi. This step adds to the growing India-Pakistan tensions and may reshape the region’s balance.
