Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar has warned that Pakistan possesses credible intelligence indicating a potential Indian military strike within the next 24 to 36 hours, based on what he termed ‘baseless and concocted allegations’ linked to the recent Pahalgam incident.
In a strongly worded statement issued in the wee hours on Wednesday, Mr Tarar criticised India’s “reckless” posture in the region, accusing it of unilaterally assuming the roles of “judge, jury, and executioner.” He reaffirmed that Pakistan, being a victim of terrorism itself, has always condemned the menace in all its forms and locations.
The statement underscores Islamabad’s offer to facilitate a “credible, transparent and independent” probe into the incident through an impartial commission of experts. However, Tarar noted, India has shown no interest in pursuing this course, instead opting for a ‘dangerous path of irrationality and confrontation.’
The Pahalgam incident-details of which remain unclear-has triggered heightened diplomatic and military tensions between the two nucleararmed neighbours. While New Delhi has hinted at crossborder involvement, Islamabad maintains it has no link and sees India’s allegations as politically motivated.
Tarar condemned the alleged Indian strategy of stoking public sentiment for electoral gain, calling it ‘unfortunate and deplorable.’ He warned that any act of aggression would be met with a ‘decisive and assured’ response.
Calling for international vigilance, the Information Minister urged global powers to remain alert to the risk of escalation in South Asia. He emphasised that the responsibility for any resulting conflict would rest squarely with India.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s national resolve to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity under all circumstances.