Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has firmly stated that the country’s armed forces are fully prepared to defend national sovereignty, following accusations by India linking Islamabad to a recent attack on tourists in Kashmir.
Speaking on Saturday at a military ceremony held at the Pakistan Military Academy in Abbottabad, Sharif praised the strength and professionalism of Pakistan’s forces. “Our valiant armed forces remain fully capable and prepared to defend the country’s sovereignty and its territorial integrity against any misadventure,” he said, drawing parallels to Pakistan’s “measured yet resolute” response to India’s February 2019 air incursion in Balakot.
Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors have heightened once again after Indian authorities alleged Pakistani involvement in an attack that left several tourists dead in the disputed region of Kashmir. Islamabad has strongly rejected the allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated.
Sharif emphasized that Pakistan seeks peace in the region but would not tolerate any threats to its sovereignty. He reaffirmed the government’s support for the armed forces and hailed their readiness to respond to any external aggression with strength and determination.
“Our armed forces are not only defenders of our borders but also protectors of our nation’s pride,” the Prime Minister added. “The events of 2019 remain a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to respond effectively without escalating tensions unnecessarily.”
The 2019 incident he referred to involved Indian airstrikes on Pakistani territory following a deadly suicide bombing in Pulwama, Kashmir, which killed over 40 Indian paramilitary troops. Pakistan responded with airstrikes of its own and shot down an Indian fighter jet, capturing the pilot who was later released as a goodwill gesture.
Sharif’s latest remarks come at a critical time when regional stability hangs in the balance. Both nations have fought three wars since their independence in 1947, two of them over Kashmir, and sporadic border skirmishes continue despite ceasefire agreements.
As both sides trade accusations, the international community has called for restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sharif’s strong stance signals that Pakistan is prepared to defend its interests if provoked.
