'Pakistan must act on cross-border terror before the world trusts its words', says India

India Tuesday said Pakistan must take “credible action” against cross-border terrorism before the international community can believe its assurances, responding to Pakistan Chief of Defence Forces and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir’s statement that his country’s armed forces were determined to defeat terrorism.

“Pakistan needs to demonstrate action and firm commitment. And it must take credible action against cross-border terrorism before the world believes it would do what it says,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at his regular media briefing.

India responds to Munir

Jaiswal was responding to a question on Munir’s remarks during a visit to the Corps Headquarters in Peshawar Tuesday. According to Pakistan’s military, Munir was briefed on the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, ongoing counter-terrorism operations, border management measures and the operational preparedness of formations deployed in the province.

Munir said Pakistan’s armed forces, with the support of the country, remained determined to defeat terrorism and ensure lasting peace and stability. He also directed military formations to remain vigilant and maintain operational preparedness.

India’s response sought to turn the focus to its longstanding concerns over terrorism emanating from Pakistani territory. New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that normal relations with Islamabad require an environment free of terrorism, hostility and violence.

Pakistan battles militancy

Munir’s comments came amid heightened security concerns in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where militant attacks have targeted security forces and police.

Pakistan has blamed several recent attacks on militants operating from neighbouring Afghanistan and has accused Kabul of failing to prevent its territory from being used by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and affiliated groups. Afghanistan has rejected accusations that it allows its territory to be used for attacks against other countries.

Pakistan carried out strikes across the border in Afghanistan this week, saying it targeted militant hideouts. Kabul condemned the strikes as a violation of its sovereignty. India, separately, condemned the Pakistani strikes and reiterated its support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.

The latest exchange also comes against the backdrop of continuing tensions between India and Pakistan, with terrorism remaining a central point of contention in bilateral relations.