Islamabad (National Times): Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has firmly rejected the possibility of deploying nuclear weapons during the recent military standoff with India, stressing that the country’s nuclear arsenal is intended solely for self-defence and peaceful purposes.
Speaking to a group of students in Islamabad, Sharif addressed the concerns that arose following a four-day military confrontation between India and Pakistan, which resulted in the deaths of 55 Pakistani citizens. While affirming that Pakistan had responded “with full might” to Indian airstrikes, Sharif emphasized that nuclear weapons are “not for aggression.”
“Pakistan’s nuclear programme exists for national security and peace. It is not designed for offensive action,” Sharif said.
The tension escalated after India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The Indian military targeted nine terror-linked sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including locations in Bahawalpur, a known base of the Jaish-e-Mohammad terror outfit.
Rumours of Zardari’s Resignation Denied
Sharif also addressed swirling rumours about political instability, particularly suggestions that President Asif Ali Zardari could be asked to resign and that Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir was eyeing the presidency.
Labeling the claims as “baseless speculation,” the prime minister asserted, “Field Marshal Asim Munir has never shown any interest in becoming the president, and no such plan is under consideration.”
Sharif emphasized a harmonious working relationship between himself, Zardari, and Munir, calling it one based on “mutual respect and trust.”
His remarks follow a strong statement by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who condemned what he described as a “malicious campaign” targeting Pakistan’s top leadership. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Naqvi said, “We know exactly who is behind these efforts to sow discord.”
Naqvi also hinted at foreign involvement in stoking these narratives, saying, “Collaborate with hostile foreign agencies all you want — we will continue doing everything necessary to strengthen Pakistan, InshAllah.”
Field Marshal Munir, appointed as Army Chief in 2022, recently had his tenure extended from three to five years by the federal government, further solidifying his role in Pakistan’s current civil-military landscape.
As tensions with India simmer and internal political rumours circulate, Sharif’s statements appear aimed at projecting stability and reassurance both at home and on the international stage.
