Islamabad/New Delhi: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a startling statement, claiming that the “chances of war with India are real,” while insisting that Pakistan would emerge stronger in any future conflict.
In an interview with Samaa TV, Asif said Pakistan’s security forces were on alert due to rising tensions following remarks by Indian military and political leaders. When asked if a military clash was possible, he replied, “There is a real chance of war with India.”
Despite acknowledging the risks, Asif claimed Pakistan would have “a better outcome than before” if war broke out. “I don’t want things to escalate, but I can’t ignore the dangers,” he added.
He further alleged that India had lost support from countries that once stood with it, while Pakistan had gained new allies—though he did not name them. He also made controversial historical claims, stating that India was “never one country except briefly under Aurangzeb,” and said Pakistan unites whenever India is involved in conflict.
Indian Military Responds
Asif’s comments come after Indian Army Chief Gen. Upendra Dwivedi warned Pakistan to stop supporting terrorism if it wants global acceptance.
During “Operation Sindoor,” launched on May 7 in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, India reportedly struck multiple Pakistani military sites. Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh said at least a dozen Pakistani aircraft, including US-made F-16s, were destroyed or damaged.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also issued a strong statement, affirming that India “may cross any boundary” to protect national integrity and its people.
The four-day conflict ended on May 10 with a ceasefire, which India claims Pakistan requested following heavy losses. Tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours remain high, raising global concerns over regional stability.
