India should remember the Abhinandan episode before violating Pakistan's airspace: Khawaja Asif

Following Indian allegations of Pakistan’s involvement in the Pahalgam attack and the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, recalling the capture of Indian Navy pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, asserted his forces' ability to respond to any Indian aggression on borders in a befitting manner.

Speaking to a private news channel, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that Pakistan has multiple pieces of evidence of India's contribution to terrorism in Pakistan.

For instance, Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav was arrested at the Afghanistan-Iran border while attempting to enter Pakistan.

He maintained that terrorist attacks in Balochistan, including the Jaffar Express attack, are linked to India, citing that India is leading terrorism in the province by providing refuge to separatists.

According to the minister, These separatists often travel to India for medical treatment, and there is a connection between the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and India.

Read: AJK residents debunk India’s false claim of killing terrorists on LOC

Khawaja Asif stated that Pakistan possesses numerous evidence to support these claims.

He maintained that instead of accusing others, India needs to hold itself accountable. Indian authorities should conduct an inquiry and seek out those responsible before making false allegations against Pakistan.

Regarding the Indus Water Treaty, the Defence Minister stated that “India cannot make unilateral decisions regarding water distribution via the Indus River.” He added, “We will give a comprehensive response to India after holding the National Security Committee meeting, which will be convened on Thursday.”

Pahalgam Attack: India suspends Indus Waters Treaty, orders Pakistanis to leave within 48 hours

He raised concerns about the oppression in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), where, despite the decades-long presence of the Indian military, many lives have been lost.

The Defence Minister emphasised that Pakistan is a victim of terrorism and condemn terrorism globally, noting that the country has been facing militancy for a decade. 

“How can those who promote terrorism be victims themselves? Pakistan's forces are fighting terrorism everywhere,” he added.