Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) has strongly condemned India for misrepresenting and distorting recent remarks attributed to field marshal General Asim Munir during his official visit to the United States.
The FO labeled India’s reaction as “immature” and accused New Delhi of displaying a “chronic tendency” to twist facts and statements to suit its own political agenda.
Background to the Controversy
General Munir recently undertook his second visit to the United States in less than two months, engaging with senior political and military leaders and addressing the Pakistani diaspora in Florida. He also attended the farewell ceremony of General Michael Kurilla, the outgoing commander of the United States Central Command.
Following this trip, several Indian media outlets claimed that General Munir allegedly stated: “We are a nuclear nation. If we think we are going down, we’ll take half the world down with us.” This remark was presented in the context of heightened regional tensions following a deadly incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir earlier this year, in which 26 tourists were killed.
India’s Official Reaction
Responding to these alleged comments, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) accused Pakistan of “nuclear sabre-rattling,” calling it a standard tactic in Pakistan’s diplomatic playbook. The MEA also criticized the timing and location of the remarks, suggesting they were inappropriate to make while visiting a friendly third country.
Pakistan’s Strong Rebuttal
In response, FO spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan categorically denied the accuracy of the statements attributed to General Munir, describing India’s claims as “misleading” and “self-serving.” He stated that Pakistan rejects the concept of “nuclear blackmail” and maintains a long-standing policy against the use or threat of force.
The FO emphasized that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear power, maintaining a robust and secure command-and-control system under full civilian oversight. It has consistently exercised restraint and discipline in matters of critical national security.
Accusations of Indian Aggression and War-Mongering
The FO accused India of resorting to “war-mongering” and “jingoistic rhetoric” whenever confronted with diplomatic or security challenges. According to the spokesperson, India’s attempt to involve third countries in the dispute is a sign of diplomatic weakness and an effort to apply unnecessary pressure on Pakistan.
Pakistan, the FO asserted, will continue to operate as a responsible member of the international community. However, it warned that any act of Indian aggression or violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty will be met with an “immediate and proportionate response,” with full responsibility for escalation resting on India’s leadership.
The statement concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, responsible state behavior, and credible counterterrorism efforts, which are widely recognized by the international community.
