Khawaja Asif’s remarks come after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, with both nations escalating diplomatic and military postures.
Islamabad [Pakistan], April 26: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stark warning that any military aggression by India could lead to an “all-out war” between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. His comments come in the wake of the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which left at least 26 people dead and several others injured. India has blamed Pakistan-based groups for the assault, while Islamabad denies involvement.
In an interview with Sky News, Asif stated, “If there is an all-out attack or something like that, then obviously there will be an all-out war,” adding that the world should be “worried” about the possibility of a full-scale conflict erupting in the region. He also rejected allegations of Pakistani involvement in the Pahalgam attack, calling them unfounded and accusing India of attempting to manufacture a crisis.
Asif’s warning comes amid escalating tensions between the two countries. India has taken several diplomatic measures in response to the attack, including suspending the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty and downgrading diplomatic ties. Pakistan has retaliated by suspending trade, closing its airspace to Indian aircraft, and canceling Indian visas. Both nations have also suspended visa issuance and closed border crossings.
The Pahalgam attack has reignited fears of conflict between India and Pakistan, both of which possess nuclear weapons. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions and the potential for a broader conflict. Analysts suggest that both countries may seek to avoid full-scale war but could engage in limited military actions or proxy conflicts.