Tensions between India and Pakistan have reached a dangerous level following a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, where 26 civilians, mostly tourists, lost their lives earlier this week.
Speaking to UK-based Sky News, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that Pakistan’s military is fully prepared for “any eventuality” if the situation escalates further. He said that if India initiates military action, Pakistan will respond in a “measured” but firm manner, and an all-out conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors could not be ruled out.
“An all-out attack would mean an all-out war,” Asif said, adding that the international community should be concerned about the growing tensions between India and Pakistan.
Reports have suggested that India might be considering military retaliation after the Pahalgam attack on April 22. In response, India has already taken several diplomatic steps against Pakistan, which has also reacted with countermeasures. Both countries have reportedly placed their armed forces on high alert.
During the interview, Asif also reflected on Pakistan’s historical involvement with global conflicts, blaming past decisions for today’s problems. He said Pakistan had been involved in fighting wars for the United States and the West for over 30 years, especially during the Soviet-Afghan conflict and the post-9/11 wars.
“We made a mistake by getting involved. If we had stayed out, our record would have been spotless,” Asif said. He criticized the U.S. for later accusing Pakistan of terrorism, even though, according to him, many of the terrorist groups were once supported by Western powers to counter the Soviet Union.
Meanwhile, India has accused Pakistan of sheltering terrorist groups responsible for attacks in Kashmir. The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be a proxy of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam massacre.
Following the attack, India announced strong diplomatic actions, including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan, marking a major shift in bilateral ties.
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