Pakistan Defence Minister Khwaja Asif warns of risk of ‘all-out war’ with India, says they are on 'full alert'

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that the country cannot rule out the possibility of an “all-out war” with India, saying Islamabad is on “full alert” as tensions continue to rise across the region. His remarks, made during an interview with Samaa TV, come at a time when both countries are trading sharp statements and the neighbourhood is dealing with fresh security concerns.

Khwaja Asif’s warning raises heat

In the interview, Asif said, “We are neither ignoring India nor trusting it under any circumstances. Based on my analysis, I cannot rule out an all-out war or any hostile strategy from India, including border incursions or attacks (presumably Afghan). We must stay fully alert.”

The comment follows Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi’s description of Operation Sindoor as an “88-hour trailer”. Dwivedi had said the armed forces were ready to “teach them (Pakistan) how to behave responsibly with a neighbouring nation” if required.

Attacks add to regional unease

The back-and-forth comes after two major attacks in India this year. A car explosion in New Delhi on November 10 killed 15 people, months after a deadly strike in Pahalgam. Security agencies on both sides of the border have pointed to changing patterns in how these attacks are carried out.

Earlier this month, Asif had hinted at a tougher line, saying Pakistan was prepared for simultaneous challenges. He told a media outlet, “We are ready; we are prepared to face both the eastern (India) and western (Afghanistan) borders. Allah helped us in round one, and He will help us in round two.” He added, “If they want the final round, we have no option but war.”

Pakistan-Afghanistan friction adds a new layer

Asif’s fresh comments also come amid rising clashes between Pakistan and the Taliban regime. Heavy fighting last month left casualties on both sides, before Turkey and Qatar brokered a ceasefire on October 19.

The tensions began after Islamabad asked the Taliban government to take stronger action against militants allegedly operating from Afghan soil. Pakistan then launched airstrikes across the border, triggering retaliation and causing more deaths and injuries.

The Taliban denied Pakistan’s charges, saying Afghan territory “is not being used to attack Pakistan” and that the Islamic Emirate “does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries.”

India factor enters the frame

Asif has repeatedly suggested that India is involved in attacks that originate from Afghan territory. Pakistani media reports say he believes New Delhi is trying to create friction between Islamabad and Kabul.

Speaking to Geo News last month, Asif said, "I have my doubts that the ceasefire will hold, because the decisions of the [Afghan] Taliban are being sponsored by Delhi."