Pakistan Rejects Indian Claims, Seeks Impartial Probe into Pahalgam Incident: PM
News Desk
Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has categorically rejected India’s allegations over the recent Pahalgam incident and reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to cooperate with an impartial international investigation.
Speaking at the passing-out ceremony of cadets at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul on Saturday, the prime minister emphasized Pakistan’s responsible approach to regional peace and security.
“Pakistan, as a responsible state, is ready to cooperate in an impartial international investigation into the matter,” said Sharif, terming India’s claims as “baseless and unsubstantiated.”
‘Water is Our Lifeline’
Highlighting national priorities, the prime minister asserted that Pakistan would not tolerate any violations of the Indus Waters Treaty. “If our water is stopped in violation of the treaty, we will respond with full force. This is not negotiable,” he said, warning against any attempts to infringe on Pakistan’s water rights.
Sharif reassured the nation that the country’s armed forces are fully prepared to defend the nation’s sovereignty. “The 250 million citizens of Pakistan stand united behind their military,” he added.
Pakistan: A Victim of Terrorism
In a strong rebuttal to terrorism allegations, the prime minister stressed that Pakistan has suffered the most in the global fight against terror, losing nearly 90,000 lives and incurring massive economic losses. “Pakistan has been the world’s largest victim of terrorism. Our commitment to peace must not be seen as a sign of weakness,” he stated.
Sharif also underscored Pakistan’s role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, reaffirming the country’s commitment to peace under the UN Charter. He reiterated that Pakistan seeks constructive ties with neighboring countries, particularly Afghanistan.
However, the premier expressed concern over continued cross-border terrorism from Afghan soil. “Afghanistan is our neighbor and a brotherly Islamic country, and we desire peaceful coexistence,” he said, praising Defense Minister Khawaja Asif’s recent diplomatic outreach to Kabul.
Kashmir Remains Pakistan’s ‘Jugular Vein’
Reiterating Pakistan’s position on Kashmir, Prime Minister Sharif called it the “jugular vein” of the nation and condemned the international community’s failure to resolve the long-standing dispute. He paid tribute to the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people and called for renewed global attention to their plight.
Condemnation of Israeli Aggression
Sharif also denounced the ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza, calling for an immediate halt to what he described as “Israeli atrocities.” He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s demand for an independent homeland.
National Unity and Economic Progress
Addressing the newly commissioned cadets, the prime minister lauded the professionalism and discipline of the Pakistan Army. “You are now the guardians of Quaid-e-Azam’s vision of faith, unity, and discipline,” he told them, urging them to uphold the values of patriotism and commitment.
The ceremony was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, Information Minister Atta Tarar, along with foreign diplomats and senior military officials.
Sharif also touched upon Pakistan’s ongoing economic recovery, citing a recent increase in foreign investments in mining, defense production, and infrastructure as signs of progress.
Pakistan Wants Peace, Not Provocation
In a related development, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, in an interview with The New York Times, reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to cooperate with any international probe into the Pahalgam incident. He dismissed Indian allegations as “politically motivated” and cautioned against escalation that could destabilize the region.
Asif also rejected claims of the banned militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba operating from Pakistani territory, stating the group was “inactive” and incapable of orchestrating attacks.
“We don’t want escalation. We want peace — but peace based on facts, not fabricated narratives,” Asif said.
