Khaja Asif calls for European and neighboring countries to be involved in the probe; criticizes Indian Prime Minister Modi’s credibility.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, has suggested that the investigation into the Pahalgam incident be conducted by international entities, including European and neighboring countries. He emphasized that Pakistan has no objections to allowing the international community to probe the matter.
Speaking during a program titled Center Stage, Khawaja Asif reiterated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had offered to allow an independent international investigation into the Pahalgam incident. He urged that the credibility of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statements be scrutinized. Asif also described Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent speech as comprehensive, addressing all pertinent issues related to the situation.
Asif stated, “We have extended an offer for a transparent investigation, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also emphasized this point. We are open to including European countries and neighboring states in the investigation. Additionally, we could invite member nations of the United Nations Security Council to help resolve the matter.”
The Defense Minister highlighted China’s significant role in this issue, as it shares borders with both India and Pakistan. Asif pointed out that India’s control over a part of Kashmir and the historical legacy of the Kashmir issue, inherited from Britain, could be key factors in drawing international attention to the matter.
“The British, who left behind this issue, can also be invited to weigh in,” he said, stressing the importance of a multi-national approach to investigating the incident.
Khawaja Asif also criticized Modi’s leadership, asserting that the Indian public itself is losing faith in their Prime Minister. He claimed that Modi’s narrative surrounding the Pahalgam incident lacks credibility, saying, “The Indian government has yet to provide any solid evidence or written proof to the media. Modi is simply using this story for political purposes, and its credibility has been severely undermined.”
The Defense Minister added that, historically, the Indian government’s use of such incidents for political gain is not new. “When Modi faces challenges, he fabricates such stories to rally public support. This is a political tactic aimed at gaining a few votes,” Asif said.
Referring to the 2019 Pulwama attack, Khawaja Asif remarked that there were voices within India claiming it was a false flag operation, with Modi’s government allegedly engaging in violent acts to garner votes from right-wing Hindu extremists. He pointed out the targeting of religious minorities in India, particularly Sikhs and Christians, under Modi’s leadership.
“As a country, India has become the largest exporter of terrorism, with its influence reaching countries like Canada and the United States,” Asif stated.
Khawaja Asif emphasized that Pakistan remains fully prepared to defend itself if aggression arises, declaring, “We are not just 100% prepared, but 200% ready. We will defend every inch of our soil, and we are willing to go to any lengths to ensure our sovereignty. We do not seek aggression, but if provoked, we will defend ourselves.”
The Defense Minister’s remarks come at a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with both sides asserting their position over Kashmir and regional security concerns.
