ISLAMABAD — On Thursday, Pakistan’s military issued a strong warning regarding any potential attacks, reflecting on the anniversary of last year’s brief yet intense conflict with India. This clash nearly escalated into war but was halted by a U.S.-mediated ceasefire.
The military announced that any “hostile action” against Pakistan would be met with greater force and determination than what India experienced during the May 2025 conflict, which Pakistan referred to as the “Battle of Truth.”
Tensions between the two nations intensified after a tragic attack in the Indian-administered region of Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of 26 individuals, mostly Hindu tourists. India accused Pakistan-supported militants of this attack in Pahalgam, a claim that Pakistan firmly rejected, urging for an independent investigation.
Following the attack, India initiated airstrikes within Pakistan on May 7, leading to retaliatory measures from Pakistan, including drone strikes and missile launches. The exchange resulted in casualties on both sides until a ceasefire was reached on May 10 through the intervention of the U.S.
At that time, Pakistan asserted it had shot down several Indian aircraft, including a French-made Rafale jet, while India admitted to some losses but didn’t provide specific details. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has often claimed credit for preventing a larger conflict.
During a press conference, army spokesperson Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry pointed out that India had quickly placed blame on Pakistan for the Kashmir attack without offering any evidence. He expressed that a year had passed since the Pahalgam incident, yet Pakistan’s inquiries remained unanswered. Chaudhry emphasized that while Pakistan respects India’s military capabilities, it stands ready to defend against any aggression.
“If anyone wants to challenge us, we are prepared,” he stated emphatically, alongside senior naval and air force officials. However, he clarified that Pakistan does not seek conflict, aiming instead to maintain its honor and dignity.
Rear Adm. Shifaat Ali mentioned that during the previous conflict, the Indian navy had attempted to disrupt Pakistan’s maritime activities in the northern Arabian Sea but was met with effective strategies from the Pakistan Navy, ensuring that trade routes remained secure.
Air Vice Marshal Tariq Ghazi confirmed that Pakistan had downed multiple Indian fighter jets during the conflict, reaffirming that Pakistan exercised restraint and maintained the capability to deliver significant damage if necessary.
Relations between Pakistan and India have long been strained, stemming largely from territorial disputes over Kashmir, which both nations claim in its entirety.
