In a developing situation, Pakistan's defense minister welcomed U.S. intervention to ease escalating tensions with India after recent military exchanges. Asif's comments followed India's airstrikes on suspected terrorist sites, which resulted in significant casualties.
Pakistan's Defense Minister Seeks U.S. Mediation Amid Rising Tensions with India
Pakistan's Defense Minister Seeks U.S. Mediation Amid Rising Tensions with India
Khawaja Muhammad Asif acknowledges U.S. efforts to help resolve conflicts following Indian airstrikes in Pakistan.
On Wednesday, Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, expressed his gratitude for U.S. involvement in mediating the rising tensions with India. His remarks came in response to India's airstrikes earlier that day on nine locations across Pakistan and territories controlled by Pakistan in Kashmir, launched in retaliation for a terrorist attack in Kashmir the previous month. Reports indicate that at least 20 individuals died as a result of these aerial assaults.
Despite the backdrop of hostilities, Asif noted that Pakistan was open to diplomatic resolutions, emphasizing the country's readiness to exercise restraint. He claimed Pakistan had already acted defensively by bringing down five Indian planes and two drones, as well as employing electronic warfare techniques to thwart some Indian missile launches.
“Restraint is still being applied,” Asif stated, while cautioning that if further escalations occur, the situation could quickly deteriorate. He also indicated that Pakistan would prefer to avoid further military engagements as long as India refrains from further aggression and agrees to an independent inquiry into the recent events. As the global community watches closely, the defense minister's call for U.S. support could serve as a pivotal moment in navigating these complex geopolitical tensions.
