Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif has stated that neither India nor the Taliban regime can even contemplate launching an attack against Pakistan, while emphasizing that the country’s principal security concern at present is terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, which, according to him, enjoys Indian backing.
Speaking in an interview with a private television channel, the Defence Minister acknowledged that the region is currently passing through a difficult and challenging phase. He, however, maintained that the historic defence agreement is intended to contribute towards peace, stability and development in the region.
Khawaja Asif asserted that India would not have the courage to launch another attack against Pakistan. He argued that India has increasingly found itself isolated internationally and claimed that its relationship with Israel remains its principal strategic association.
“India has no courage to attack Pakistan again,” the Defence Minister said, emphasizing that Pakistan’s security establishment remains fully cognizant of the evolving regional security environment.
The Defence Minister identified terrorism emanating from Afghanistan as the more immediate security challenge confronting Pakistan. He maintained that terrorist activity originating from Afghan territory is being supported by India and constitutes a serious threat to Pakistan’s security and stability.
Khawaja Asif further stated that neither India nor the Taliban regime could even contemplate attacking Pakistan, reiterating confidence in Pakistan’s ability to safeguard its territorial integrity and national security.
He underscored that Pakistan continues to closely monitor developments across the region and remains prepared to respond to any threat to its sovereignty and security. Speaking about the broader regional situation, the Defence Minister stressed the importance of peace and stability at a time when the region is facing multiple security and geopolitical challenges.
He expressed a personal aspiration that the day would come when the Muslim Ummah stands united, emphasizing the importance of collective strength and solidarity among Muslim countries. The Defence Minister also sharply criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, drawing attention to what he described as Modi’s reluctance to face the media directly. Khawaja Asif observed that Indian Prime Ministers traditionally hold press conferences and engage with journalists, but claimed that Modi is an exception, stating that he has not held a single press conference.
The Defence Minister’s remarks come against the backdrop of continuing regional tensions and heightened security concerns, particularly regarding developments along Pakistan’s western border and India’s posture towards Pakistan.
Pakistan, he emphasized, remains committed to safeguarding its national interests while pursuing peace and stability in the region. At the same time, the country remains vigilant against threats posed by terrorism and any attempts to undermine its sovereignty or internal security.
