Pak Defence Minister Sees Imminent Attack By India

Islamabad: Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif warned on Monday that an Indian military incursion into Pakistan was “imminent” following last week’s militant attack in Kashmir that killed 26 tourists. He said Islamabad had reinforced its forces and taken “strategic decisions” after the military briefed the government on the likelihood of an Indian strike.

“We have reinforced our forces because it is something which is imminent now,” Asif told Reuters. “Some strategic decisions have to be taken, and those decisions have been taken.”

Indian foreign and defence ministries did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Asif stressed Pakistan remained on high alert but would resort to its nuclear arsenal only if “there is a direct threat to our existence.” He said Pakistan had briefed friendly nations—including Gulf states, China, Britain and the United States — on the situation, though he added that Washington was “staying away” from direct intervention.

China called on both sides to exercise restraint, while the US State Department said it remained in touch with Delhi and Islamabad, urging a “responsible solution.”

Tensions have already escalated: India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty on April 23, prompting Pakistan to close its airspace to Indian carriers. Asif condemned the suspension as an “act of war” and appealed to the World Bank and international guarantors to uphold the pact.