Amid rising Pakistan India tensions, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday assured the world that Pakistan would not initiate hostilities but would respond firmly to any aggression from India. His remarks come amid fears of a potential Indian strike following the deadly April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists.
Firm but Measured Stance
Speaking in Islamabad alongside Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Dar rejected India’s allegations of Pakistan’s involvement in the Pahalgam attack. He reaffirmed Islamabad’s call for a neutral international investigation, stating, “We had nothing to do with the incident. Our offer for a credible probe remains on the table.”
Dar emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace. “We will exercise full restraint. We will not be the first to escalate,” he said. “But if India opts for any adventure, we will respond with a befitting reply.”
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Mounting Regional Concerns
Tensions have surged following the attack, with both sides exchanging fire along the Line of Control (LoC), suspending diplomatic ties, and shutting borders. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vow to “pursue the attackers to the ends of the earth” has heightened fears of limited airstrikes or special forces action against Pakistan.
Pakistan, meanwhile, says it has credible intelligence about India’s intentions and has alerted its allies. Dar reiterated that Pakistan had communicated its peaceful stance to “foreign capitals and friendly nations,” urging calm while preparing for any contingency.
Iran Offers Mediation
Iran’s Foreign Minister Araghchi confirmed that Tehran is closely monitoring the regional standoff. He expressed readiness to mediate between the two rivals, saying Iran “is ready to use its good offices” to help defuse the situation.
Both ministers also discussed broader regional security, including the ongoing nuclear talks between Iran and the United States.
Pakistan and India have fought multiple wars over Kashmir since 1947. With nuclear capabilities on both sides, the international community has called for restraint and dialogue to avoid a wider conflict. Dar reiterated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s peace offer, saying, “Our position is clear, our doors to diplomacy are open.”
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