RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has issued a strong warning to India, asserting that any future provocation will be met with a “swift and brutal” response. Emphasizing regional distinctions, he declared, “India is not Israel, and Pakistan is not Palestine.”
In an interview with Turkey’s state news agency, the ISPR chief stressed Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war on terror, revealing that the country has endured over 3,700 terrorist attacks since January 2024. These attacks have led to 3,896 deaths, including 1,314 security personnel, and left over 2,500 people disabled.
Gen Chaudhry accused India of directly supporting and financing terrorism within Pakistan, stating that “millions of Pakistanis have paid the price” for standing against extremism. On the Kashmir issue, he reiterated that it is internationally recognized as a dispute, criticizing India’s efforts to suppress it through force.
He warned, “We are a peace-loving nation, but if challenged, our response will be immediate and forceful. India is not the US, and Pakistan is not Afghanistan.” Reaffirming Pakistan’s sovereignty, he added, “Pakistan will never submit to Indian domination.”
Addressing recent tensions, Gen Chaudhry dismissed India’s allegations over the Pahalgam incident, stating that no evidence has been provided. He also referenced the Baloch Liberation Army’s ties with India, noting public support from Indian politicians and retired military leaders.
He claimed that during recent escalations, Pakistan successfully shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft—accusations that India has not acknowledged.
Furthermore, he warned that any attempt by India to block Pakistan’s access to Indus River waters would provoke a severe, long-term response, stating, “No one can deny water to 240 million Pakistanis.”
The ISPR chief concluded that Pakistan responded to Indian strikes by targeting 26 military installations, before halting once a ceasefire was agreed. He affirmed the military’s commitment to civilian authority and national defense.
