Federal Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal on Saturday warned India against straying from its policy of a “no first use” nuclear doctrine, warning Pakistan has both the will and capability to retaliate “in its own language” for any act of aggression.
Mr. Iqbal cautioned at a news conference in Islamabad that India should not breach the guarantee against nuclear weapon fire, after what he characterized as ‘cowardly Indian missile attacks’ on Pakistani territory on the night of May 7. He indicated that Pakistan has a strong, iron-like determination and threatened a measured but firm response.
The minister’s words come as tensions along the border have grown, with Pakistan claiming India is attacking civilians — including children — in a series of two-nights-over aerial incursions. Mr Iqbal added that over 70 Indian drones were intercepted and destroyed by Pakistani troops in retaliation to repeated airspace incursions.
“India should not pursue this series any further,” he cautioned. “The more harm India inflicts on Pakistan, the more harm it will inflict upon itself. These strategies are not in anyone’s interest and only promise to destabilise the region even further.”
Pointing to Islamabad’s measured response, Mr Iqbal indicated Pakistan had made a conscious decision to have a “cautious response” with the hope that India would learn the appropriate lesson from it. “We wish this would be understood in India. Our goal is not to escalate, but we cannot tolerate any attempt on our integrity,” he declared.
Mr. Iqbal blamed India for launching missiles
Mr. Iqbal blamed India for launching missiles at Pakistani targets and condemned the attacks on international standards. “India’s action on the evening of May 7 was not cowardly alone, it was a violation of peace. Civilians and even children were targeted. Pakistan has expressed a strong response and clearly indicated its red lines.”
The minister also added that India’s economic interests would be more at risk in the event of sustained hostility. “India’s economic interests are greater than Pakistan’s. Its own people will compel the leadership to reconsider these aggressive steps,” he stated.
Reiterating the country’s determination, Mr Iqbal added that all citizens were with the armed forces in the defence of the country. “They will not be lax in safeguarding Pakistan’s interests. The Pakistani nation’s spirit is second to none in the world. Nobody can overcome our determination.”
