Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, issued a strong warning on Monday, vowing that any breach of the country’s sovereignty or territorial integrity would be met with a decisive, full-force response. His statement, released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), comes amid heightened tensions with India following last month’s deadly attack on tourists in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
India accused Pakistan of orchestrating the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people—a charge Islamabad has firmly rejected as baseless. In turn, Pakistan claims it has credible intelligence indicating that India may be planning military action, raising fears of escalating conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
Speaking at the General Headquarters (GHQ) during the 15th National Workshop Balochistan, General Munir stressed that while Pakistan seeks peaceful relations in the region and beyond, it will not hesitate to defend its sovereignty and national pride if provoked.
The army chief also addressed ongoing development efforts in Balochistan, highlighting the government’s commitment to socioeconomic upliftment in the province. He pointed out that many of these projects are already delivering tangible benefits and dismissed misinformation suggesting otherwise.
General Munir praised civil society members for their efforts to educate and engage Balochistan’s youth, describing their role as crucial to fostering long-term progress and prosperity.
Warning of persistent security challenges, the COAS emphasized that foreign-backed terrorism remains the biggest threat to Balochistan’s peace and development. He assured that any attempts by hostile forces to destabilize the province through violence and fear would be thwarted.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s united stance against terrorism, General Munir stated, “Terrorism recognizes no religion, sect, or ethnicity—it must be confronted with unwavering national unity.” He condemned militant groups that commit violence under the guise of Baloch identity, calling them a stain on the honor and patriotism of Baloch people.
General Munir concluded by underscoring that Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies remain resolute in their mission to eliminate terrorism, backed by the full support of the nation.
