Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a stern warning to India while speaking to the media outside Parliament House, stating that any aggression or violation by India would be met with a firm and proportionate response from Pakistan.
“As India acts, so shall we respond — no one should be in doubt,” said Asif, adding that the threat of conflict is increasing with time. “If India initiates an attack, Pakistan will not remain silent. We will retaliate with greater force.”
Highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts, the minister revealed that friendly countries, regional powers, and neighbours are engaged in behind-the-scenes mediation to de-escalate tensions and avoid war. “We hope these efforts bring some sense to India,” he said.
Khawaja Asif also endorsed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for an international investigation into recent incidents, noting that India’s silence on the proposal indicates it may be hiding something. “If there’s nothing to hide, then why reject an international probe?”
Criticising the Indian ruling party, he remarked, “Whenever BJP needs votes, it drags Pakistan into a crisis. Let it be clear — Pakistan will not initiate war, but if war is imposed on us, our response will be stronger than the force used against us.”
