In the wake of escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, Pakistan's Defence Minister has declared that the country's military is prepared to refrain from action if India halts its operations. This statement comes amid a backdrop of heightened tensions following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir, which India has blamed on Pakistan. Islamabad has denied any involvement and called for a neutral investigation into the incident.

The situation has led to a series of events, including exchanges of fire across the Line of Control (LoC), the downgrading of diplomatic ties, and the closure of airspace between the two countries. India has also launched what it calls "Operation Sindoor," targeting sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, alleging they were used to plan attacks. Pakistan has condemned these actions as an "act of war" and promised a robust response.

Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, stated that Pakistan is on high alert and has reinforced its forces due to the perceived imminent threat of Indian aggression. He also reiterated Pakistan's stance on nuclear weapons, saying they would only be used if there is a direct threat to the country's existence. Asif accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of pushing the region to the brink of nuclear war for political gains and repeated claims that India is involved in terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Amid the escalating tensions, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for a "neutral investigation" into the Pahalgam attack. He has also emphasized Pakistan's military preparedness to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Sharif stated that Pakistan is open to participating in any neutral, transparent, and credible investigation into the attack.

The international community, including the United States and China, has urged de-escalation. Beijing has advocated for an independent investigation into the attack and its suspects. However, tensions remain high, with both sides trading military threats and taking steps to prepare for potential conflict. India has suspended a crucial water-sharing treaty, further straining relations. Pakistan has called on the international community and the World Bank to protect the pact.

The current crisis marks a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan, raising concerns about a broader military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed nations. The situation remains volatile, and the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the two sides can de-escalate and find a path towards peaceful resolution.