Defence minister rejects nuclear 'blackmail' accusations

Defence affairs - Def-Geopolitics

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has strongly refuted any suggestions that Pakistan engages in nuclear blackmail, stating that the country’s nuclear capability exists purely for defense and not to threaten or intimidate others.

Speaking to the media outside Parliament House, Asif emphasised that Pakistan's nuclear assets are meant solely for national security. "We do not blackmail anyone; our nuclear capability is a guarantee of our defense. It poses no threat to any nation," he asserted.

He also launched a sharp critique of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming that Modi is haunted by Pakistan and its military, even in his dreams. “For Modi, the idea of war with Pakistan has become a nightmare. His war rhetoric is aimed more at pleasing his voters than at real threats,” Asif said.

The minister claimed that Modi is facing increasing criticism from within India, including from opposition parties and regional states. “Even Indian citizens are now acknowledging that Modi's aggressive posturing nearly led to war,” he added.

Khawaja Asif alleged that Modi is trying to deflect from internal unrest and political failures by issuing provocative statements. He further claimed that Indian opposition parties are seizing this opportunity to reassert themselves in national politics.

Accusing India of sponsoring terrorism within Pakistan, Asif stated: “The stain of terrorism is now associated with Modi. Groups like the BLA and Taliban are operating as Indian proxies. Pakistan possesses concrete evidence of Indian-sponsored terrorism, which has been submitted to international forums.”