Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, on Wednesday issued a strong warning against the possibility of nuclear conflict between Pakistan and India, calling it a “foolish” and “unimaginable” idea that would only lead to mutual destruction.
In a candid interview with BBC, the Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to peace but made it clear that the country remains fully prepared to respond if war is imposed.
“India is playing with fire with its aggressive posturing and false narratives,” said Lt Gen Chaudhry. “While Pakistan seeks peace, we are always ready for war if necessary.”
The warning comes in the wake of heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors following the Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. India retaliated with airstrikes against what it said were militant camps within Pakistan. Pakistan hit back with its own air operations, and there was an intense 88-hour confrontation before a ceasefire was finally negotiated.
Lt Gen Chaudhry rejected India's explanation for the attacks, terming it an old and unfounded tale. “Every few years, India spins the same old tale to justify aggression,” he said. “But the world has started seeing through this facade.”
In response to Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s claim that India had informed Pakistan prior to the strikes, the DG ISPR called the statement laughable. “It’s a comical narrative,” he said. “We don’t rely on Indian intelligence or their media to defend our borders. We knew exactly what they were up to.”
He added that during the six to seven May airstrikes, Pakistan not only defended its territory effectively but also shot down six Indian fighter jets. “We could’ve done more, but our leadership chose restraint and responsibility,” he added.
Lt Gen Chaudhry criticized the Indian leadership for using conflict as a political tool and ignoring serious questions about internal security failures.
“Nobody in India is asking how such a massive security lapse occurred. Instead, they’re using the incident to fuel anti-Pakistan rhetoric and distract from domestic issues.”
He further stated that Pakistan acted maturely by avoiding escalation and has always been open to verifiable evidence. “If any Pakistani is involved in terrorism, give us proof—we’ll take action ourselves,” he stressed.
Despite the intense exchanges, Pakistan reiterated its desire for peaceful relations. “We are a peace-loving nation. We celebrate peace. But we are not weak,” Lt Gen Chaudhry said. “If someone wants war, we’re ready.”
He also confirmed that the first move towards de-escalation came from India. “Their DG Military Operations reached out to us after our response. Only after we had made our position clear did real ceasefire talks begin.” He credited responsible leadership and international mediation—including from then U.S. President Donald Trump—for helping dial down tensions.
The Pakistani military’s message is clear: peace is preferred, but strength is guaranteed. With both nations on edge, Lt Gen Chaudhry’s statements serve as a sober reminder of the risks of military adventurism in a nuclear neighborhood. “Nuclear war is not just unwise—it’s suicide for both. Let’s not even imagine it.”
