TLDR:
• Pakistan to respond in kind
• India’s actions called unserious
• NSC meeting scheduled for tomorrow
ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — Pakistan will issue a strong and proportionate response to India’s recent announcements, which have been labelled by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar as unserious and irresponsible. Stressing that the national interest will guide all actions, Dar stated that India will be answered in kind.
Pakistan asserts its strategic strength
Dar reiterated that Pakistan is not only a nuclear power but also a formidable missile-capable state, fully equipped to defend its sovereignty. The remarks were made during an interview on a private television network, where Dar framed India’s latest rhetoric as bluster lacking substance. His statement comes amid rising tensions in the region, where measured diplomatic responses are giving way to strategic positioning.
National Security Committee meeting called
In response to India’s recent statements and alleged provocations, the Pakistani government has summoned a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC). The meeting, scheduled for tomorrow, is expected to address the broader implications of India’s posturing and devise a comprehensive plan aligned with Pakistan’s long-term strategic and national security goals.
Dar hinted that important decisions are likely to emerge from the committee, reflecting the seriousness with which Pakistan views the situation. The convening of the NSC signifies a move from rhetorical rebuttals to formal policy formulation, underscoring Islamabad’s intent to respond with precision rather than passion.
India’s claims dismissed as baseless
Responding to India’s accusations of Pakistan’s alleged involvement in recent terrorist incidents, Dar firmly rejected them, pointing out that no concrete evidence has been provided. He characterised the claims as part of a recurring pattern wherein India deflects its internal challenges by placing blame on Pakistan.
This deflection, he added, not only lacks diplomatic maturity but also threatens to further destabilise an already fragile regional climate. The repeated reliance on unverified allegations, Dar implied, undermines the credibility of India’s global narrative.
Indus Waters Treaty cannot be unilaterally scrapped
Addressing India’s suggestion of revoking the Indus Waters Treaty, Dar reminded that the agreement is an internationally recognised accord that cannot be terminated unilaterally. He framed India’s claim as not only unlawful but also diplomatically provocative.
Any such move, he warned, would be met with a strong diplomatic and legal response. Pakistan, he said, will not tolerate the politicisation of vital regional treaties and is prepared to defend its rights under international law.
