India has issued a strong condemnation of remarks reportedly made by Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff during a visit to the United States, describing them as “nuclear sabre-rattling” and emblematic of Islamabad’s irresponsible behaviour.
According to the statement, the comments reinforce “well-held doubts about the integrity of nuclear command and control in a state where the military is hand-in-glove with terrorist groups.” The Indian government expressed particular regret that such remarks were made “from the soil of a friendly third country,” viewing the location and context as adding to the diplomatic impropriety.
Reiterating its position, India said it will not succumb to nuclear blackmail and will continue to take all necessary steps to safeguard national security. The sharp reaction comes amid persistent tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, with New Delhi accusing Islamabad of routinely using nuclear threats while failing to address terrorism originating from its territory.
