Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stark warning of a potential all-out war with India, declaring that Pakistan is fully prepared to respond with decisive force if provoked, amid rapidly escalating tensions in the region.
In an unambiguous interview with CNN, the Defence Minister stated that while Pakistan does not seek confrontation, India’s continued provocations and violations are pushing the two nuclear-armed neighbours to the brink. “There is no doubt that we are fully prepared for a full-scale war,” he asserted. “We do not want to raise tensions, but India’s actions are consistently escalating the situation.”
Asif pointed to India’s recent breach of international borders as a dangerous turning point, warning that the long-standing dispute could now spiral into a major conflict. “New Delhi is deliberately heightening hostilities, and the region stands at a critical juncture,” he said.
The warning follows India’s unprovoked attack on Pakistani civilian areas during the night of May 6–7, carried out under the cover of darkness. The strike, which came in the wake of the April 22 killing of tourists in Pahalgam, has been widely interpreted as an act of war.
Pakistan’s military responded with overwhelming force. According to official sources, Pakistan shot down five Indian warplanes—including three Rafale jets—and destroyed multiple military installations, including a brigade headquarters. The Indian army was forced to raise a white flag at the Chura Complex along the Line of Control, effectively conceding defeat in that sector.
The National Security Committee has since granted Pakistan’s armed forces full operational authority to act in defence of the nation. The government has reaffirmed its resolve to respond with strength and clarity to any further aggression from India.
Khawaja Asif’s statement marks a serious escalation in rhetoric and signals Pakistan’s unwavering stance: while the country remains committed to peace, it will not hesitate to defend its sovereignty with full force if necessary.
