Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Asim Munir, issued a warning Monday regarding any violation to its territorial sovereignty that will be met with swift and decisive response. This comes amid rising regional tensions as well as reports of cross-border security incidents over recent weeks.
At a high-level security briefing at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, the army chief underscored his forces’ readiness to defend Pakistan’s borders from any form of aggression. General Munir noted that sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan were paramount; any attempt at undermining their national security will be met with force from our military forces.
The warning appears to be directed at recent developments along Pakistan’s western and eastern borders, specifically airspace incursions by outside forces, reported violations and hostilities between states in the region. Although no specific country was named by COAS in his statement, analysts suspect his remarks reflect incidents like reported border violations or airspace incursions by external parties as well as rising hostilities between them and Pakistan.
General Munir in his address reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to peace while emphasizing that restraint should not be misconstrued as weakness. While Pakistan remains committed to peaceful coexistence with all of its neighbors, any misadventure would result in strong and decisive responses, according to General Munir.
This statement comes following a series of national security meetings convened following recent incidents along the Pak-Afghan border and rising concerns of cross-border militant activity. Reports also surfaced of drone surveillance and shelling near border towns, prompting increased military vigilance.
ISPR released a brief statement after COAS’s remarks, affirming that Pakistan Army remains on high alert and closely monitors any threats. Our forces remain prepared to respond swiftly if anyone attempts to disrupt national security,” reads ISPR’s statement.
Political leaders have broadly agreed with General Kayani’s statement. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that Pakistan reserves its right to protect its people and land according to international law and would raise any hostile actions through diplomatic channels before taking necessary actions if necessary.
Defense analysts note that Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff’s statements sent a clear signal to regional actors that it will not tolerate breaches of sovereignty by those within or without Pakistan’s borders. As Pakistan’s security environment evolves, its proactive military stance aims to deter potential threats while assuring its citizenry of their readiness.