Islamabad: Amid escalating tensions with India following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Pakistani military has moved to exert greater control over the Shehbaz Sharif government. In a significant development, Lieutenant General Asim Malik, the chief of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), has been given additional charge as the country’s National Security Advisor (NSA). This move effectively allows the military to directly advise the Prime Minister.
Appointment Amid Rising Tensions:
Malik’s appointment comes at a critical time, with tensions between India and Pakistan heightened following the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, last week. The attack resulted in the deaths of 26 people, most of whom were tourists. The Express Tribune, citing sources, reported the additional responsibility given to Malik, with a formal notification already issued. Malik was appointed as the head of the notorious ISI in September of last year.
Pakistan Fears Indian Retaliation:
Since the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan has been apprehensive about potential retaliatory action from India. There are fears within Pakistan that India might undertake significant steps such as airstrikes or direct military intervention. Pakistan’s Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, even made a late-night announcement on Tuesday, around 2 am, claiming that India could launch an attack within the next 24 to 36 hours, citing “credible intelligence.”
In a video statement released on X (formerly Twitter), Tarar warned that any act of aggression from India would be met with a decisive response.
Sharif Appeals to the US:
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reportedly held a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, appealing to the United States to mediate and calm India’s anger. Sharif denied any Pakistani involvement in the Pahalgam attack and accused India of “provocations.” He also called for a neutral investigation into the Pahalgam incident and offered cooperation.
