Islamabad: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has alleged that India and the Taliban-led government in Kabul are working in coordination against Pakistan, claiming both capitals are “on the same page” when it comes to targeting the country.
In an interview , the minister described the recent wave of militant violence in Pakistan, including the bombing of a Shiite mosque in Islamabad, as part of a broader “proxy war.” He alleged that terrorist networks are operating from Afghan soil and accused the Kabul administration of failing to take serious action against them.
Asif warned that Pakistan could launch further cross-border strikes if militant threats persist, stating that Islamabad would not hesitate to act unless Afghan authorities guarantee peace. He also cautioned that tensions with India remain high and that the possibility of conflict cannot be ruled out.
Turning to the Middle East, the defence minister said Pakistan may consider contributing to a future international stabilisation mission in Gaza, provided the mandate and conditions are clearly defined. He noted Pakistan’s longstanding role in United Nations peacekeeping missions and said such participation could support efforts toward a two-state solution.
However, Asif ruled out any move toward normalising ties with Israel, reiterating that Pakistan would only reconsider its position if Palestinians are granted the right to self-determination within an independent state.
The remarks come amid rising regional tensions and renewed debate over security cooperation in South and West Asia.
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