Top military brass vows decisive response to any Indian aggression

Amid heightened tensions with India, the Pakistan Army on Thursday pledged a firm and decisive response to any attempt by New Delhi to impose conflict, asserting its unflinching commitment to the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The statement was issued following a Special Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) held at General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, chaired by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir. The forum conducted a thorough review of the prevailing geo-strategic environment, with particular focus on the Pakistan-India situation and regional security dynamics.

Tensions escalated after the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which killed 26 tourists. India swiftly blamed Pakistan without providing evidence and took steps including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, cancelling visas for Pakistanis, and closing the Wagah-Attari border.

In retaliation, Pakistan expelled Indian diplomats, cancelled most Indian visas, and closed its side of the border crossing. Islamabad denied involvement in the Pahalgam attack and offered to cooperate in a transparent investigation.

The military’s top leadership expressed concern over what it described as a consistent pattern by India to exploit crises for political and military purposes, noting similarities with past incidents such as the Pulwama attack in 2019, which preceded the revocation of Article 370 in IIOJK.

The forum also voiced alarm over reported Indian efforts to undermine the Indus Waters Treaty, warning that any attempt to weaponise water resources would endanger the livelihood of millions and destabilize the region.

Further concerns were raised about alleged Indian intelligence involvement in orchestrating subversive activities within Pakistan. These actions, the forum said, violate international norms and would be countered with clarity and resolve.

Read: COAS vows full force response to any Indian aggression

The military leadership reiterated that Pakistan’s efforts for peace and economic progress would not be derailed by terrorism, coercion, or external aggression.

COAS Munir expressed full confidence in the operational readiness, deterrence capability, and morale of the armed forces, emphasizing the need for vigilance and unity in confronting evolving challenges.