Former Abdul Basit has triggered controversy with his remarks suggesting that Pakistan could target India in the event of an attack by Western nations. He stated that if Pakistan were to be targeted, it may have no option but to retaliate by striking major Indian cities such as Mumbai and New Delhi. The comments have sparked widespread concern over regional security and stability.
Basit, however, clarified that such a scenario would arise only under extreme circumstances and acknowledged that the likelihood of it occurring is very low. He added that neither Pakistan nor India desires such an outcome, but maintained that retaliatory action could become unavoidable if Pakistan is left with no alternatives. His direct mention of key Indian cities has drawn strong reactions.
Indian defence experts have interpreted the remarks as an indication of Pakistan’s limited capacity to directly confront Western powers. According to analysts, this suggests a potential fallback strategy of targeting India in the event of external aggression. The comments have further intensified debates around geopolitical tensions in the region.
Basit served as Pakistan’s High Commissioner to India between 2014 and 2017, and his statements have gained significance due to his diplomatic background. Meanwhile, Pakistan has also been under scrutiny for its recent airstrikes in Afghanistan, with the Taliban alleging civilian casualties. These developments have added to growing concerns over stability in the region.