Asif Suggests India Could Escalate Border Tensions
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif sparked controversy by suggesting that India could provoke along the border, raising the possibility of a two-front war involving Pakistan.
Speaking to Samaa TV, Asif said:
“No, absolutely, you cannot rule that out. There are strong possibilities.”
When asked whether the government had prepared for such a scenario, he responded:
“Yes, strategies are in place. I can’t discuss them publicly, but we are prepared for any eventuality.”
Accusations Against Afghanistan’s Taliban Government
Earlier this week, Asif accused the Afghanistan Taliban of allegedly fighting a proxy war on behalf of India. Speaking to Geo News, he claimed:
“I have my doubts that the ceasefire will hold, because the decisions of the Taliban are being sponsored by Delhi. Right now, Kabul is fighting a proxy war for Delhi.”
These remarks came despite Pakistan’s history of supporting terrorism within its own territory, making Asif’s comments particularly contentious.
Pakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions
The statement follows a temporary 48-hour ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, agreed late Wednesday after a week of violent cross-border clashes that resulted in the deaths of troops and civilians.
The Taliban had launched an offensive along southern Pakistan border regions, prompting Islamabad to pledge a strong response. Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of harbouring terrorist groups led by the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), a claim denied by Kabul.
Key Takeaways
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Pakistan warns of two-front war readiness along borders with India and Afghanistan.
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Defence Minister Khawaja Asif links India to ongoing tensions with the Taliban.
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Temporary ceasefire achieved amid escalating cross-border violence.
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Islamabad and Kabul remain on alert as both sides monitor troop movements.
