ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar asserted on Wednesday that Pakistan has demonstrated to the world it did not initiate hostilities with India.
“From the beginning, we assured our nation and the international community that Pakistan would not be the first to resort to war — and we have upheld that commitment,” he said during a media briefing.
He emphasised that Pakistan’s restraint reflected its dedication to peace, despite provocations.
Dar revealed that during the recent escalation, the Pakistan Air Force engaged with 75 to 80 Indian aircraft over the course of nearly an hour. Despite the intensity of the encounter, Pakistan’s response remained measured and defensive, aimed at avoiding further escalation.
He noted that the Air Force shot down five Indian jets while acting in self-defence, and suggested that the number could have been higher if full engagement had been authorised.
Commending the solidarity of the nation, Dar praised the unwavering support of the Pakistani people for the armed forces during the crisis.
He added that all national institutions, including the Army and Air Force, maintained full operational readiness in response to the Indian aggression.
On the diplomatic front, Dar highlighted the proactive role of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Pakistan promptly engaged with key international stakeholders — including the Turkish Foreign Minister, the Chinese Ambassador, and Italy’s Interior Minister — to convey its stance.
Furthermore, a formal communication was sent to the President of the UN Security Council, outlining Pakistan’s position and reaffirming its commitment to regional stability.
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