Retaliatory Strike
Information Minister Atta Tarar confirmed on Thursday that Pakistan’s retaliation along the Line of Control (LoC) had resulted in the deaths of 40 to 50 Indian soldiers.
This response came after missile strikes launched by India, prompting Pakistan to assert its defensive capabilities. Speaking during a motion in the National Assembly, Tarar outlined that the National Security Committee (NSC) had authorized Pakistan’s highly-prepared armed forces to respond decisively and strategically, choosing the timing and location of their retaliation.
Tarar emphasized the full authority granted to Pakistan’s military to deliver an effective and strong response. “Forces have been given full authority to deliver an effective and strong response,” he remarked, further stating, “Now, it is up to us to decide where this matter goes from here. Our response will come, and it will come soon. It will be a powerful response, one that the world will remember.”
The minister sharply criticized India for its actions, accusing the country of cowardly attacking Pakistan under the cover of darkness with advanced Rafale jets. He declared that India’s arrogance had been shattered, and despite believing itself to be invincible, India had now been humbled. “Pakistan always unites as one powerful force in the face of such challenges,” Tarar added, stressing the country’s resolve and unity in defending its sovereignty.
Tarar also commended Pakistan’s armed forces, calling them heroes for successfully downing Indian aircraft and striking a blow to India’s pride. He highlighted that India had failed to achieve its objectives using high-tech weapons and noted that the manufacturers of the Rafale jets themselves were now questioning the effectiveness of their products. In an interesting turn of events, the shares of Rafale’s manufacturer had reportedly dropped by 18%.
Tarar referred to the Indian strikes that occurred on the night of May 6-7, labeling them as “cowardly midnight strikes.” Pakistan had effectively asserted its air combat superiority by downing five Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets, including three Rafales.
This marked the first time that a French-made Rafale warplane had been downed in combat, according to a high-ranking French intelligence official quoted by CNN. In addition to the Rafales, a Su-30MKI and a MiG-29 Fulcrum were also shot down by Pakistani forces.
The information minister reaffirmed that Pakistan’s defense remained strong and secure, asserting that the armed forces were fully prepared for any further escalations. “The entire nation stands with the armed forces of Pakistan to respond to the Indian aggression,” he concluded, underscoring the nation’s collective support for its military in these challenging times.
