Pakistan’s military on Saturday warned that any fresh conflict with India could bring “cataclysmic devastation,” and vowed to respond decisively and without restraint. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued the warning after what it called a string of provocative statements by India’s defence leadership. The military said Pakistan would “resolutely respond” if hostilities resume.
The ISPR singled out recent comments by Indian military chiefs and the defence minister. India’s Army Chief reportedly said Pakistan must stop state-sponsored terrorism or risk severe action. The Indian Air Force chief claimed—without presenting evidence—that his forces downed multiple Pakistani jets during May’s clashes. Pakistan called the remarks “jingoistic” and accused New Delhi of fabricating pretexts for aggression.
Defence sources in Islamabad said Pakistan now plans to extend its retaliatory reach well inside Indian territory if attacked. The ISPR warned that talk of erasing Pakistan from the map would backfire and stressed that any attempt at large-scale aggression would meet a symmetric response. The statement also noted Pakistan’s recent creation of an Army Rocket Force Command to operate long-range conventional missiles, underscoring a shift toward deeper-strike capabilities.
Analysts say the exchange of threats follows a bitter four-day May conflict sparked by an attack on tourists in occupied Kashmir. India blamed Pakistan for that attack; Islamabad denied involvement and called India’s account “replete with fabrications.” Both countries used jets, missiles, drones and artillery during the confrontation, which ended with a ceasefire but left deep mistrust on both sides.
Regional observers warn that the rhetoric risks undoing the fragile calm the ceasefire bought. Diplomats urge restraint and renewed dialogue to prevent escalation between two nuclear-armed neighbours. For now, Pakistan’s message is clear: it will defend its sovereignty and take the fight to any depth India chooses to test.
