Ashraf AboArafe
Pakistan categorically rejects the provocative and incendiary remarks made by the Indian Prime Minister in his speech yesterday. At a time when international efforts are underway to promote regional peace and stability, such statements represent a dangerous escalation rooted in disinformation, political opportunism, and a blatant disregard for international law. These remarks also reflect a pattern of constructing false narratives to justify aggression.
Pakistan remains committed to the recently reaffirmed ceasefire understanding and continues to take necessary steps to de-escalate tensions and maintain regional stability. This understanding was reached through the efforts of several friendly nations that conveyed messages advocating for de-escalation. The portrayal of Pakistan as seeking a ceasefire out of “desperation and frustration” is yet another blatant falsehood.
The Pahalgam incident is being exploited—without credible evidence—to malign Pakistan, justify military adventurism under a fabricated pretext, serve domestic political agendas, divert attention from rising sectarian tensions, cover up grave human rights abuses in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and reinforce a concocted narrative of a perpetual external threat.
Following India’s unlawful and unprovoked aggression targeting innocent Pakistani civilians under a false pretense of counter-terrorism, and despite Pakistan’s restraint, India recklessly escalated the situation by targeting Pakistani military installations—risking uncontrollable escalation. These Indian actions have set a dangerous precedent and pushed the entire region to the brink of catastrophe. Such behavior reflects a regressive mindset intent on undermining strategic stability in South Asia, with no regard for consequences.
Moreover, India’s cold-blooded justification for the killing of innocent civilians—mostly women and children—and its dangerously irresponsible brinkmanship are being normalized as the “new normal.” Pakistan categorically rejects this assertion.
The actual “normal” is that no one should be allowed to violate the principles and purposes of the UN Charter with impunity. Pakistan has demonstrated this commitment clearly. We will closely monitor India’s actions and behavior in the coming days and urge the international community to do the same. In line with its right to self-defense, Pakistan’s response to Indian aggression was measured and targeted solely at military installations. Pakistan has clearly demonstrated its capabilities in the face of Indian military threats—a reality that can no longer be denied by propaganda or misinformation.
India’s unilateral and illegal actions are further evident in its blatant disregard for binding agreements such as the Indus Waters Treaty, which has governed shared water resources for decades. Pakistan will take all necessary steps to safeguard its rights under this treaty.
Pakistan is a direct victim of Indian-sponsored terrorism. We have suffered greatly due to this scourge. Our contributions and sacrifices in the global war against terrorism are well known. Pakistan has always advocated a peaceful resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
In this regard, we reiterate our support for President Trump’s efforts to help resolve this long-standing conflict, which continues to threaten peace in South Asia. In today’s world, true strength lies in peace. Military posturing and theatrics serve no one; only mature leadership, regional cooperation, and respect for international norms can serve the global good.
Pakistan is a sovereign nation with resilient institutions, a committed people, and a globally recognized role in promoting peace and security. Our commitment to peace must never be mistaken for weakness. Any future aggression will be met with firm resolve. We hope India will prioritize regional stability and the well-being of its people over narrow, politically motivated chauvinism.
