Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said that although the military ceasefire between Pakistan and India remains intact, India’s political leadership appears unable to accept its recent defeat.
Speaking at an event hosted by Pakistan’s High Commission in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, Dar noted that the military-to-military truce established after fierce clashes in May is being upheld, but politically, New Delhi continues to struggle.
In the May conflict, both nuclear-armed neighbours exchanged missile strikes, drones, and artillery fire over four tense days before agreeing to a ceasefire. Pakistan responded with a large-scale operation, “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” which Dar said resulted in the downing of six Indian fighter jets, including four Rafales. He also accused India of targeting Sikh-populated areas during the strikes.
Dar added that the ceasefire followed US diplomatic efforts, recalling that on the final day of fighting, Washington contacted Islamabad after India requested an end to hostilities. “At 8:15 in the morning, the US secretary of state called and said India wants a ceasefire,” he said.
Criticising India’s recent suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Dar described it as a futile and legally flawed move, asserting that New Delhi cannot divert Pakistan’s water. He further claimed that India’s aggressive policies are leading to international isolation.
On Pakistan’s economic front, Dar highlighted signs of recovery and ambition, saying the country aims to join the G20 in the near future.
During his visit to Kuala Lumpur for the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting, Dar also met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. He conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. Ibrahim welcomed the gesture and expressed hope to host PM Sharif in Malaysia later this year.
