Pakistan’s Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani on Saturday accused India of attempting to divert global attention from the long-standing Jammu and Kashmir dispute, reigniting tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Gilani, a senior parliamentarian and former prime minister, made the remarks at the inaugural session of the Rotary International District Conference 2025 in Karachi. He stated that Pakistan was committed to peace with all its neighbours, including India, but added that any escalatory steps would not go unanswered.
“India is attempting to divert the world’s attention from the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir that has remained unsolved between the two neighbours for decades,” Gilani said.
He stressed Pakistan’s willingness to cooperate in the investigation of the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, saying, “Pakistan was seeking peace with the neighbouring countries, including India, and was ready for an impartial and transparent investigation into the Pahalgam attack.”
He also cautioned India against premature allegations. “India should refrain from playing the accusation game before any investigation,” Gilani said, urging Rotary members to contribute to easing the growing tensions.
His comments follow a spate of incendiary remarks from Pakistani military officials and political leaders, many of whom have warned of nuclear retaliation should a conflict erupt. In an interview aired last week, Pakistan’s Defence Minister declared, “If India captures part of POK, Pakistan will use its nuclear options on its soil.”
Such rhetoric has raised alarm internationally, with the United States calling for de-escalation. On Saturday, US Vice President JD Vance said, “We are hoping that the current state of affairs between the two nations does not lead to broader conflict,” while also reaffirming support for India in the wake of the Baisaran Valley attack.
The flurry of hostile remarks from Pakistan has added to mounting regional unease, with analysts warning that a misstep could trigger a wider conflagration. The international community has repeatedly urged both sides to exercise restraint and return to diplomatic dialogue.
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