Amid growing tension, Asif claims Pakistan is fully prepared for a two-front war against India and Afghanistan if provoked.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, has issued a stark warning that his country can “not rule out” a war with India. Speaking at a public event, Asif said that Islamabad is on “full alert” and fully prepared to defend its interests should hostilities escalate.
Asif’s remarks come amid rising border tensions, and he made a specific reference to a possible two-front war, saying Pakistan is ready to confront challenges both on the eastern border with India and the western front involving Afghanistan.
He invoked religious sentiment, asserting, “Allah helped us in round one, and he will help us in round two,” signaling his country’s resolve.
In a separate interview, Asif also warned that a full-scale war could be inevitable if Pakistan’s national interests are threatened.
However, he has also clarified his remarks, emphasizing that Pakistan does not seek war but is prepared to respond forcefully if provoked.
Background
- In April 2025, Asif warned that any Indian military incursion could spark an “all-out war”, stating that Pakistan’s defences were fully alert.
- He has repeatedly pointed to India’s “ill intentions,” especially over water-sharing agreements, suggesting that past flood-related incidents may not have been accidental.
- The two-front war reference comes during heightened regional tensions, including instability in Afghanistan and conflicts involving the Taliban, which Asif links with Indian influence.
Implications of Khawaja Asif’s Warning
- Escalation Risk: Such statements from Pakistan’s defence minister raise the risk of a military escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
- Strategic Posturing: By mentioning a two-front war, Asif signals strategic readiness and deterrence, not just militarily but politically.
- Regional Tensions: His remarks reflect Pakistan’s concerns about regional dynamics — especially in relation to Afghanistan.
- Diplomatic Pressure: The warning adds pressure on the international community to monitor developments closely and encourage de-escalation.
