Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir recently made provocative remarks during a gathering with the Pakistani diaspora in Florida, asserting that Pakistan could use its nuclear weapons to take down India and “half the world” if faced with an existential threat. He also threatened to destroy Indian dams following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. These statements have raised serious concerns about Pakistan’s nuclear command and control, especially given the military’s close connections with terrorist groups.
India’s External Affairs Ministry condemned Munir’s remarks as irresponsible and regrettable, particularly because they were made on US soil—a country considered friendly to Pakistan. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India will not give in to nuclear intimidation and remains committed to safeguarding its national security. The ministry pointed out that such nuclear sabre-rattling is a familiar tactic from Pakistan and deepens doubts about the country’s role as a responsible nuclear power.
Experts and officials familiar with the issue highlighted that Munir’s threats reflect Pakistan’s history of nuclear brinkmanship, which fuels instability in South Asia. There is also widespread international concern that Pakistan’s nuclear materials or expertise could fall into the hands of terrorist groups, given the lack of transparency and accountability within the military. These factors contribute to the global community’s wariness toward Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal and the risks it poses to regional and international security.
