New Delhi: Pakistan’s relations with India have deteriorated rapidly recently. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a stern warning, claiming open conflict was becoming increasingly likely. War could erupt at any moment, he stated with concern during a televised interview on Tuesday. Asif accused Indian leaders of aggressively escalating tensions and pursuing provocative actions. Any attempt to forcibly seize Pakistani lands would result in disastrous costs, he somberly cautioned.
The water dispute has exacerbated problems between the nations. Asif vowed to remove any Indian structures constructed to obstruct Pakistan’s water access. “If India dams our rivers, the diverted waters will overflow and flood their lands,” he asserted. This statement comes after India suspended the longstanding Indus Waters Treaty in response to the deadly attack in Pahalgam on April 22nd. The tragic incident, which took the lives of 26 civilians, sent tensions skyrocketing to dangerous levels.
Pakistan has strengthened its border security in anticipation of potential risks. Over 300 fighter jets now stand ready near the Indian frontier. Asif, speaking gravely on national television, warned that an Indian strike would spare no one. He emphasised that any threat to Pakistan’s security will compel a momentous reaction that is proportionate to the severity of the provocation.
Asif drew troubling parallels between India’s actions and Israel’s military operations against Gaza. He accused leaders in New Delhi of harbouring similar aggressive inclinations. Just days prior, he had warned of a possible Indian incursion along the volatile Line of Control dividing Kashmir. Speaking to reporters in Islamabad, he highlighted India’s capability to attack anywhere along their shared border.
India-Pakistan ties are on the verge of collapse due to the Pahalgam attack. As tensions escalate alarmingly, India is undertaking nationwide emergency response drills on Wednesday to prepare for potential crises. Pakistan denies its involvement in the attack but has bolstered its defences, wary of facing retaliation.