ISLAMABAD – General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), has made it clear that Pakistan handled the recent Pakistan India conflict entirely on its own. No external support was taken during the tense 96-hour standoff with India.
In an interview with the BBC, Gen Shamshad said Pakistan used only its internal strength during the entire episode. “The systems we deployed were either produced locally or purchased earlier,” he explained. “But during the actual operation, it was our own national capability that counted.”
He firmly denied any foreign help. There were rumors that countries like China had provided satellite data or intelligence. Gen Shamshad rejected these claims, saying, “We fought the full Pakistan India conflict independently. Not a single piece of assistance came from outside.”
His remarks provide a rare glimpse into what officials now describe as a short but serious military standoff between two nuclear powers. Though he didn’t mention when it occurred, Gen Shamshad hinted that it wasn’t limited to the usual border areas. Urban zones were also affected this time.
“The tension reached cities more than border villages,” he said. “This is a serious shift. Future India Pakistan clashes may not stay confined to areas like Kashmir anymore.”
While talking about communication with India, he said no effective system exists. “There is only one way to talk during a crisis — through the DGMO hotline,” he noted. “That’s not enough in times of extreme pressure.”
Gen Shamshad also pointed out the danger of rising extremism. He said that when one side has an extreme mindset, it becomes harder for others to step in. “This time, the United States and a few other countries tried to intervene,” he said. “But even their role was limited.”
The Pakistan India conflict has deep roots. The two countries have fought wars and seen many flare-ups, especially over Kashmir. The last major escalation happened in 2019. It followed a deadly suicide attack in Pulwama and led to airstrikes on both sides.
Gen Shamshad’s warning about shifting battle zones and limited diplomacy adds to growing concern. The India Pakistan tension now seems to be entering a new and dangerous phase. Urban warfare, restricted dialogue, and rising hostility paint a troubling picture.
