ISLAMABAD, April 25 (Alliance News): Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has raised alarm over the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, warning that the situation could spiral into a full-scale war between two nuclear-armed nations.
Speaking in an interview with British Sky News, Asif emphasized that the world should be “worried” about the potential consequences of the growing conflict.
The minister’s comments come in the wake of a deadly shooting in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK), which left 26 tourists dead, including one Nepali national, in the Pahalgam area. India has blamed Pakistan for the attack, a claim Islamabad has firmly rejected, calling it a “false flag operation.”
Asif stressed that while Pakistan’s military is prepared for any scenario, it would respond “in a measured way” to any aggression initiated by India.
He cautioned, however, that if the conflict escalates to an all-out attack, it could result in a full-scale war. Despite the rising tensions, the defence minister expressed hope that the situation could still be resolved through dialogue.
He further highlighted the risks of a confrontation between two nuclear powers, underscoring the global concern over the potential for a catastrophic outcome. “The clash between two nuclear powers is always worrisome,” Asif said, stressing the importance of resolving issues through negotiation.
In response to India’s actions, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and other retaliatory measures, Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) issued a stern warning.
The NSC stated that any attempt by India to divert water from the Indus River would be viewed as an “act of war,” vowing to respond with full national power.
The US has also expressed concern, with the State Department monitoring the developing situation in the region, describing it as a “horrible” development.
