ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif clarified on Monday that his recent remarks regarding potential military tensions with India were misinterpreted. His comments came in the wake of a tragic attack in occupied Kashmir on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, most of them tourists.
Speaking to Geo News, Asif stated that he had never predicted the onset of conflict but had emphasized the importance of the coming days in terms of regional stability. “I said the next two to three days are crucial. If anything is to happen, it will happen during this period—otherwise, the immediate risk will likely pass,” he explained.
The April 22 incident was one of the most serious in the disputed Himalayan region in over two decades. While a group initially claimed responsibility, it later issued a statement denying involvement. Pakistan has firmly rejected any implication of involvement and has called for a transparent, neutral investigation into the attack. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed this sentiment in official statements.
India, without providing evidence, suggested possible cross-border links to the attack. Since then, both countries have adopted heightened alert levels, with India conducting multiple military exercises.
In an interview with Reuters earlier in the day, Asif mentioned that Pakistan had strengthened its defensive posture in light of rising tensions. “We have reinforced our forces… strategic decisions have been made,” he said, highlighting the government’s readiness to safeguard national security.
However, Asif stressed that his remarks should not be seen as a definitive warning of war. He clarified that the language used in a recent television interview on Samaa TV had been misinterpreted. “I’ve spoken with the channel and clarified that I didn’t say war is inevitable. I only emphasized the importance of staying alert in the coming days,” he said.
He added that Pakistan remained fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and national interests but also noted that diplomatic efforts were underway to de-escalate the situation. “There is absolutely no doubt that tensions are high, but this does not mean conflict is certain,” he said.
Asif concluded by saying that regional partners and the international community were also working to maintain peace and avoid further escalation.
