Pakistan's Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has issued a stark warning to India, claiming that Pakistan's military capabilities could disrupt India's perceived geographical advantages. Speaking at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, Munir stated, "There is no space for war in a nuclearised environment," but cautioned that even a minor provocation from India would provoke a response from Pakistan that would exceed expectations. He emphasized that any escalation would lead to significant military and economic repercussions for India, asserting, "The onus of ensuing escalations... will squarely lie with India."

Munir's remarks come amid ongoing tensions with Afghanistan, where Pakistan has been conducting airstrikes that have reportedly resulted in civilian casualties. He accused India of using terrorism to destabilise Pakistan and warned that all proxies operating from Afghan territory would face severe consequences. His statements reflect a pattern of aggressive rhetoric, as he previously referred to Kashmir as Pakistan's "jugular vein," a phrase that has historically underscored Pakistan's claims over the region.

The backdrop of Munir's comments includes recent military operations by India, which targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to a deadly attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. Munir's statements have raised concerns about the potential for nuclear escalation in South Asia, as he reiterated that Pakistan would not be intimidated by India's actions or rhetoric. He concluded by warning of "deeply hurting retributive military and economic losses" should hostilities resume, highlighting the fragile security situation in the region.