Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif recently made provocative remarks acknowledging that the chances of war with India are “real” and expressing confidence that Pakistan would achieve “better results” if such a conflict occurs. These statements come amid heightened tensions following military engagements between the two neighbors and warnings from Indian military leadership.
Context of Rising Tensions and Past Conflict
The backdrop to Asif’s remarks includes the 2025 India–Pakistan conflict, which erupted in May 2025 after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir led to Operation Sindoor. India launched missile strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, targeting groups it accused of sponsoring terrorism. This military action was met with retaliatory firing and drone attacks from Pakistan. The conflict, which lasted four days, ended with a ceasefire under international diplomatic pressure but left both nations on high alert with unresolved hostility.
Statements from Pakistan Defence Minister
In an interview with Samaa TV on October 7, 2025, Asif acknowledged the real risk of a renewed war with India and did not deny its possibility. He commented that while Pakistan does not desire escalation, the risks cannot be dismissed. Notably, Asif claimed that Pakistan would “achieve a better result than before” in any future conflict. He also questioned the unity of India, asserting that India was never a united nation except briefly under Aurangzeb, contrasting it with Pakistan’s creation in the “name of Allah,” and emphasizing Pakistani unity when facing India.
Military Warnings from India
These remarks appear to be in direct response to warnings from Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, who stated that India is better prepared and would not show the same restraint as during earlier conflicts, particularly referencing Operation Sindoor. General Dwivedi threatened that future Indian military action could be so strong that Pakistan must reconsider its geographic existence. This strong rhetoric has increased the fragility in the region.
Complications and Risks
The ongoing hostility between India and Pakistan involves complex historical, geopolitical, and religious tensions. The recent statements introduce several complications:
Escalation Risk: The incendiary rhetoric from both countries increases the risk of an unintended escalation into full-scale war, especially given the recent memory of the intense 2025 conflict and the presence of nuclear weapons on both sides.
Religious and Nationalistic Overtones: Asif’s use of religious rhetoric and questioning of India’s unity reflects deep ideological divides and communal undertones that worsen diplomatic efforts and promote entrenched hostility.
Humanitarian Impact: Past conflicts have resulted in civilian casualties, including the Pahalgam attack that sparked Operation Sindoor. Renewed fighting threatens further civilian suffering and displacement.
Regional Instability: The India-Pakistan conflict affects broader South Asian stability. International actors have called for restraint, but the persistent hostility undermines peace prospects and development opportunities.
Diplomatic Challenges: Military actions and provocative statements complicate diplomatic overtures. Recent ceasefire agreements have proven fragile, requiring continuous global mediation.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s recent warning on the real possibility of war with India, combined with strong military posturing from both sides, signals a precarious security situation. While Pakistan asserts readiness to do better if conflict arises, the risks of escalation, religious-political rhetoric, and regional instability highlight the critical need for renewed diplomatic dialogue and conflict de-escalation to prevent another devastating war.