The United States State Department has acknowledged awareness of reported threats made by Pakistan's Army Chief, General Asim Munir, against India. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce addressed the situation, emphasizing that the U.S. relationship with both Pakistan and India remains unchanged and that American diplomats are committed to both nations.
These remarks follow reports of General Munir's comments made in Florida, where he allegedly stated that Pakistan might resort to using nuclear weapons against India and potentially "take down half the world" if faced with an existential threat. These statements have sparked concern and debate regarding Pakistan's nuclear posture and its relationship with India.
In response to Munir's statements, India has expressed strong condemnation, calling the Pakistan Army Chief's nuclear rhetoric "irresponsible". An official source within the Indian government stated that such remarks reinforce doubts about the integrity of nuclear command and control in Pakistan, especially given the close ties between the military and terrorist groups. India has also reiterated its commitment to taking all necessary steps to safeguard its national security.
Amidst these developments, the U.S. has praised Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts during talks in Islamabad. This has drawn criticism, with some arguing that Washington's apparent downplaying of Munir's nuclear threats could embolden Pakistan's ambitions. Michael Rubin, a former Pentagon official, has gone so far as to label General Munir "Osama bin Laden in a suit," urging the U.S. to take decisive action, including potentially removing Pakistan's status as a major non-NATO ally.
The situation is further complicated by recent trade tensions between the U.S. and India, with the U.S. imposing a 50% tariff on India over its trade relations with Russia. Some analysts believe that despite these tensions, the long-term U.S.-India relationship will remain strong.
The U.S. State Department has also highlighted its role in fostering dialogue and de-escalation between India and Pakistan in the past. The State Department recalled its involvement in brokering a ceasefire between the two nations, emphasizing the commitment of U.S. diplomats to both countries. The U.S. continues to assert that its relationship with both nations remains positive and that it can help bridge differences between them. Furthermore, the U.S. and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms through the U.S.-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue.