POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that military action by India is possible at any time following last week's attack on tourists in Kashmir, which killed 26 people. In an exclusive interview with Reuters on Monday, Asif emphasized that while he was not predicting a war, the risk of conflict was real, and Pakistan was fully prepared to defend itself if necessary.
Tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors have escalated sharply after Indian media and politicians demanded tough measures against Pakistan, accusing it of supporting extremism in Kashmir — a charge Islamabad firmly denies. Both countries have fought two wars over the disputed territory and continue to claim it in full.
High Alert and Strategic Decisions
"We have made our preparations because now this threat feels very close," Khawaja Asif stated. He noted that the Pakistan Army had advised the government about the possibility of Indian military action, prompting critical strategic decisions.
While refusing to share specific details, Asif said, "India’s statements are becoming harsher, and the threat is serious." He also reiterated that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons would only be used if the country's existence was directly threatened.
Call for Impartial Investigation Ignored
Following the attack, India claimed that two suspected militants were Pakistani nationals. Pakistan rejected the allegations and called for an impartial, international investigation into the Pahalgam incident — a request that, according to Asif, has received no response from India.
“We believe if India’s allegations are true, they should agree to an impartial investigation,” he said. "We want to expose India's lies on the Pahalgam incident."
Clarification on Misinterpreted Statements
Speaking later to a private TV channel, Khawaja Asif clarified that his remarks should not be taken as an announcement of impending war. "I said the next two or three days are important, but tension could also ease," he explained.
He added that China and several Gulf countries are actively working behind the scenes to de-escalate the situation between Pakistan and India.
"Our three armed forces are ready. We will defend every inch of our country," Asif stressed.
Conclusion
With military forces on both sides reportedly on high alert, the coming days will be crucial. Diplomatic efforts by international players like China and Gulf states could play a pivotal role in preventing a further slide toward conflict between South Asia’s two major powers.