Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that a war between Pakistan and India could begin within the next two to four days. He said Pakistan has increased its military presence after receiving signals that India may attack following a deadly shooting in Indian-held Kashmir.
Last week, a gun attack in the Pahalgam region killed 26 people, including tourists. India blamed Pakistan for the incident, but Pakistan strongly denied any involvement. Asif said the Pakistan Army had briefed the government about a possible Indian incursion and that the country had already taken strategic decisions to handle the situation.
Pakistan Ready to Defend Itself
During an interview with Reuters, Khawaja Asif said, “We have reinforced our forces. We have taken strategic decisions because an Indian attack seems likely now.” On the TV show Red Line with Talat, Asif added, “The clouds of war are forming over the region. War could break out within two to four days.”
He also warned that if India attacks, Pakistan would respond with full force. Asif made it clear that Pakistan would only consider using nuclear weapons if it faced a direct threat to its survival.
Pakistan Rejects Indian Allegations
Asif strongly rejected India’s claim that Pakistani nationals were behind the Pahalgam attack. He called the accusation a “fabricated drama” meant to support Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political image.
He said even many Indian citizens were questioning Modi’s actions and motivations. Asif urged the global community to form an independent investigation team, preferably under the United Nations or other international powers, to uncover the truth.
India Takes Strong Actions Against Pakistan
In response to the attack, India took several tough steps:
- Suspended the Indus Waters Treaty
India halted the historic water-sharing treaty signed in 1960. Pakistan called the move illegal and dangerous for regional peace. - Ordered Pakistanis to Leave
India ordered all Pakistani citizens to leave within 48 hours and closed the Attari border crossing. Indian authorities also asked Pakistani diplomats to return home within seven days. - Stopped All Visa Services
India suspended visa services for all Pakistanis, including SAARC and diplomatic visas. Indian officials also declared several Pakistani diplomats “persona non grata.”
Pakistan Responds With Counter-Measures
Pakistan quickly responded to India’s actions. The National Security Committee (NSC), chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, held an emergency meeting and announced several steps:
- Suspended the Simla Agreement and All Bilateral Ties
Pakistan suspended all agreements with India, including the 1972 Simla Accord, which guided peace and diplomatic relations. - Closed the Wagah Border
Pakistan announced the closure of the Wagah border and ordered all Indian citizens (except Sikh pilgrims) to leave within 48 hours. - Banned Indian Flights and Trade
Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian aircraft and halted all trade, including trade through third countries. - Reduced Indian Diplomatic Staff
Pakistan reduced the Indian High Commission staff in Islamabad to 30 members and expelled defense, naval, and air advisors.
Pakistan Vows to Protect Water Rights
Pakistan strongly rejected India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. The NSC stated, “This treaty is a binding international agreement. India cannot suspend it unilaterally.” Pakistan warned that blocking its water share would count as an act of war. The government promised to raise the issue at global forums and defend its rights under international law.
Also Read: India Suspends Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan After Deadly Attack
Pakistan Reaffirms Two-Nation Theory
In a strong closing message, the National Security Committee said India’s actions proved the need for a separate homeland for Muslims. “India’s aggression and policies have confirmed the importance of the Two-Nation Theory,” the NSC declared.
The committee also condemned India’s statements and said they were baseless and irresponsible. Pakistan vowed to protect its people, territory, and national interests at all costs.
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