POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a stern warning to India, stating that while Pakistan seeks peace, it is fully prepared for war. Addressing officers and soldiers during his visit to Pasrur Cantonment near the Sialkot border, the premier cautioned New Delhi against mistaking Pakistan’s desire for peace as a sign of weakness.
“If India again takes the path of adventure, we will respond in a way that you never imagined,” said Shehbaz Sharif, adding that the nation stands ready for both war and peace.
Praising the armed forces for their resilience, the prime minister said, “Books will be written about the wars Pakistan has fought and won. I salute the leadership and the bravery of our soldiers. The Pakistan Army has stunned the enemies of this nation.”
He directly addressed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to “choose dialogue over destruction.” Shehbaz stated, “Mr. Modi, talk about moving forward. Don’t light fires in the region. We want peace, but make no mistake—our wish for peace is not a weakness.”
Referring to historical grievances, Shehbaz asked, “Who trained the Mukti Bahini in 1971? The world knows. And now the same hands are found behind BLA and TTP networks.” He also issued a stern warning about water disputes, declaring, “Water is our red line. If you try to stop our water, know that water and blood cannot flow together.”
He dismissed India’s military superiority, saying, “The arrogance born from Rafale jets has turned to dust. You thought you were the region’s policeman—those illusions have now ended.”
The prime minister emphasized the need for serious, structured talks on all major issues, including the Kashmir dispute. “We will not entertain backdoor sweet-and-sour diplomacy. There will be comprehensive and coordinated dialogue with India on all outstanding matters,” he asserted.
The speech comes amid renewed cross-border tensions and follows recent ceasefire agreements, which have temporarily cooled hostilities but left many unresolved issues.