Subhechcha Ganguly 
Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Asim Munir, has issued a stern warning that Pakistan will respond with “full military might” if its sovereignty or territorial integrity is threatened. His remarks come amid heightened tensions with India following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which left 26 tourists dead.
Speaking at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi during an interaction with participants of the 15th National Workshop Balochistan, General Munir emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to peace while reaffirming its readiness to defend itself. “Pakistan seeks peace in the region and beyond; however, if Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are violated, it will respond with full force to preserve its national prestige and safeguard its people,” Geo News quoted him as saying.
The statement follows Pakistan’s claim of having “credible intelligence” suggesting India is preparing for military action in response to the Pahalgam attack, which India blames on Pakistan-based terrorists. In response, India has accused Islamabad of supporting cross-border terrorism and has taken diplomatic steps including downgrading bilateral ties, suspending a key water treaty, and closing the main land border crossing.
General Munir also addressed domestic security and development concerns in Balochistan, highlighting Pakistan’s ongoing struggle against insurgency and foreign-backed terrorism in the region.
