Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly denounced recent Indian airstrikes on Pakistani territory, calling them a “cowardly assault” and asserting Pakistan’s right to respond with full force. According to the prime minister, five different locations across Pakistan were targeted in a provocative act of aggression by India.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Shehbaz emphasized that Pakistan is facing an unprovoked act of war and confirmed that a response is already in progress.
“India has launched attacks on five separate sites inside Pakistan. This is an act of war, and Pakistan reserves the right to respond with full force. That response has already begun,” he said.
The prime minister voiced unwavering support for the armed forces, expressing full confidence in their readiness and determination. “The spirit of the Pakistani people remains unshaken. The entire nation stands behind our military. Our forces know how to respond to such aggression,” he stated.
Shehbaz also vowed that Pakistan would not allow India to succeed in its aims. “The enemy will never be allowed to achieve its malicious goals,” he declared.
In response to the escalating situation, the Prime Minister has called a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) for 10:00 am today (Wednesday). The session is expected to review the evolving security environment and determine immediate strategic measures.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed the meeting and stated that crucial decisions regarding national defence and security policy will be made. Attendees will include top military leadership, senior government officials, and representatives from key institutions. The agenda includes an in-depth evaluation of military readiness and potential threats.
Following the NSC meeting, PM Shehbaz is expected to address the nation, outlining key outcomes and reassuring the public about the country’s defence posture.
The developments follow confirmation from Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, that Indian forces had conducted airstrikes in Kotli, Bahawalpur, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Muridke. Early assessments indicate that only civilian infrastructure was hit, with no military targets involved.
“Innocent civilians were the primary victims. There is no evidence of any military installations being targeted,” said security officials.
In a swift and coordinated counterstrike, Pakistani forces reportedly destroyed an Indian brigade headquarters. According to sources, Pakistani missile strikes also took out an Indian post in the Dudhnial sector near the Line of Control (LoC).
Additionally, the Pakistan Air Force successfully shot down two Indian aircraft, further reinforcing Pakistan’s military response. Security sources described the retaliation as “strong, effective, and ongoing.”
