Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif: 'If India Chooses to Step Back, We Are Fully Prepared to Wind Down This Tension'

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has stated that the country is willing to reduce tensions with India if New Delhi chooses to de-escalate the current situation. This comes after India's military strikes on terrorist targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor. In a recent interview, Asif emphasized that Pakistan will not initiate hostilities but will respond if attacked. "We will not initiate any hostile action against India, but if we are attacked, we will respond," he said. "If India chooses to step back, we are fully prepared to wind down this tension."

Asif also mentioned that he is not aware of any planned diplomatic engagements or talks between the two countries at this stage.

Background

India's military strikes targeted nine terror-related sites in Pakistan and PoK in response to a recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which killed 26 people and injured at least 20. The situation remains tense, with both countries exercising caution and restraint. The international community is closely watching developments, and diplomatic efforts may be crucial in preventing further escalation.