Pakistan ramps up ‘two-front war’ narrative amid border tensions with India and Afghanistan
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warns of potential Indian “provocations” while India reaffirms support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty
Pakistan, Oct 17 : Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has asserted that the country is prepared for a “two-front war,” claiming that India “could play dirty at the border” as tensions rise along the Afghanistan-Pakistan frontier. Speaking in an interview with Samaa TV, Asif suggested that India might take some “vile action” along the border but did not provide evidence to support his claims.
He referred to a previous “encounter” with India, likely alluding to clashes following India’s Operation Sindoor targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Asif acknowledged the overall security situation in Pakistan as “not good” and highlighted worsening relations with Afghanistan.
When asked about any strategic discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding a possible conflict with India and Afghanistan, Asif stated that Pakistan already has a plan in place but declined to reveal details. He reiterated that India might carry out military action.
The comments come amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan following reported Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul targeting Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chief Noor Wali Mehsud. The Afghan government condemned the strikes, calling them a breach of sovereignty.
India, monitoring the developments closely, reaffirmed its commitment to Afghanistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday, “Three things are clear — Pakistan hosts terrorist organisations and sponsors terrorist activities. It has a history of blaming neighbours for internal failures, and it is infuriated by Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its territories.”
Jaiswal also confirmed that India’s Technical Mission in Kabul will soon be upgraded to a full-fledged Embassy, strengthening diplomatic and humanitarian engagement after its initial closure in August 2021 following the US-led NATO withdrawal.
Amid the rising border tensions, India remains focused on supporting Afghanistan while closely monitoring Pakistan’s statements and actions.
