Tensions between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan are rapidly escalating, as Pakistan’s defense chief warned of a “clear and present” threat of nuclear war. The warning came Wednesday night following a deadly missile exchange, marking the most dangerous military clash between the nations in over two decades. The latest round of hostilities was sparked by the killing of dozens of tourists in an April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, part of Indian-controlled Kashmir.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif delivered the grave assessment in an interview with Geo News, saying, “Pakistan has faced such threats before and [the] region could once again be on brink of a strategic standoff.” He insisted that Pakistan would not be the aggressor, but would defend itself if provoked. “We have been saying all along the last fortnight that we will never initiate anything hostile toward India. But if India attacks, we’ll respond.”
Hostilities intensified this week as Pakistan claimed it shot down 25 Indian drones that violated its airspace. India responded by asserting it had “neutralized” Pakistani efforts to strike military targets. The tit-for-tat exchanges have stoked fears across the international community.
Since gaining independence from Britain in 1947, the two nations have fought three wars and clashed repeatedly, often over the disputed region of Kashmir. Both became nuclear powers in the 1990s, turning every conflict into a potential global crisis.
President Donald Trump addressed the situation, calling the escalating conflict “so terrible” and urging both sides to pull back. “My position is, I get along with both. I know both very well and I want to see them work it out,” he said. “If I can do anything to help, I will be there.”
