Pakistan's Army Chief, General Asim Munir, has recently made headlines with strong statements regarding the Kashmir issue and the country's relationship with India. Speaking at the Pakistan Naval Academy in Karachi, Munir described what India labels as terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as a "legitimate struggle for freedom,". He asserted that Pakistan would continue to stand by the people of Kashmir in their pursuit of self-determination.

Munir's remarks follow a period of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, including cross-border hostilities after India's Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps within Pakistan. Munir has accused India of "unprovoked aggression" and warned of a "befitting response" to any future attacks. He also claimed that India exploits its "strategic relevance" for "adventurism aimed at political gains".

Despite these accusations, Munir has also presented Pakistan as a "net regional stabiliser,". He stated that Pakistan has acted with restraint and maturity, demonstrating its commitment to regional peace and stability. This claim comes even as Pakistan faces increasing scrutiny for its alleged support of terrorist groups operating in the region.

India has repeatedly stated that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh "was, is and shall forever" remain an integral part of the country. These tensions were further amplified after India abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution in 2019, revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcating the State into two Union Territories. Munir has referred to Kashmir as Pakistan's "jugular vein".

Munir's recent statements have been viewed with concern in India, especially after his successful engagement with the Trump administration. Some analysts describe Munir as a hardliner who views the conflict with India as a religious one.

Adding another layer to the already complex situation, Munir has also warned India against suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, declaring water as Pakistan's "red line". He linked water directly to the survival of 240 million Pakistanis and stated that Pakistan would never accept Indian hegemony or compromise on the issue.

Amidst these external tensions, Pakistan is also dealing with internal security challenges. Separatist movements in Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have turned violent, with the Pakistani army facing near-daily attacks.