Abdul Basit, former High Commissioner to India, suggested that Pakistan could target Delhi and Mumbai in response to US actions against Pakistan.
In recent developments, Abdul Basit, who served as Pakistan’s High Commissioner to India from 2014 to 2017, made alarming remarks suggesting that Pakistan could target major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai if the United States were to attack Pakistan’s nuclear assets. This statement marks a significant shift in the rhetoric surrounding nuclear deterrence in South Asia.
Prior to Basit’s comments, there was an expectation that diplomatic channels would continue to mitigate tensions between India and Pakistan, especially in light of the US’s role in regional stability. However, Basit’s remarks signal a decisive moment where the potential for escalation has been brought to the forefront.
Basit stated, “If America attacks Pakistan, even if America does not fall within our nuclear range, what do you think is our option?” This assertion highlights a direct threat to India, indicating that any US aggression could lead to immediate repercussions for Indian cities.
The immediate response from Indian officials was swift. Tuhin Sinha, a spokesperson for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), labeled Pakistan a “terrorist state” in reaction to Basit’s threats, emphasizing the heightened tensions that such statements can provoke.
Basit further claimed that Pakistan’s deterrence strategy is specifically aimed at India, stating, “We have limited missiles, and we know who is a danger to us. It is India.” This admission underscores the ongoing military rivalry and the precarious balance of power in the region.
In addition, Basit mentioned that Pakistan lacks intercontinental missile capabilities like India’s Agni 5 and Agni 6, which raises questions about the effectiveness of Pakistan’s deterrence strategy. Nonetheless, he asserted that if Pakistan were attacked, it would retaliate against India regardless of the consequences.
Experts have noted that Pakistan’s military leadership has historically invoked nuclear threats during periods of regional tension, particularly concerning Kashmir-related conflicts. This pattern raises concerns about the potential for miscalculation and escalation in an already volatile environment.
As the situation unfolds, the international community will be closely monitoring the implications of Basit’s remarks and the responses from both India and the United States. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any immediate military responses or diplomatic engagements following these statements.
