COAS warns of swift, resolute response to any military misadventure by India
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir addresses troops during his visit to observe a large-scale combat exercise at Tilla Field Firing Ranges on May 1, 2025. Photo: ISPR
Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir on Thursday warned that any military adventurism by India would be met with an "immediate, resolute and high-level" response, as he observed a large-scale combat exercise during a visit to the Tilla Field Firing Ranges.
General Asim Munir made the remarks while observing Exercise Hammer Strike, a large-scale field drill conducted by the army's Mangla-based Strike Corps to test operational readiness and the integration of modern weaponry in simulated combat conditions, the military said.
"Pakistan desires regional peace, but our preparedness and commitment to defend national interests are unwavering," Munir said, according to a statement from the army's media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The exercise featured a multi-domain display of military power, including long-range artillery, combat helicopters, air support, and advanced engineering techniques. Troops from all military branches participated with high levels of coordination, agility, and tactical skill.
General Munir lauded the soldiers and officers for their high morale, professional excellence, and combat spirit. He described the exercise as a reflection of the Pakistan Army's operational superiority and ongoing advancement in warfare capabilities.
'Exercise Hammer Strike is a clear example of the Pakistan Army's continuous professional evolution, innovative combat strategies, and technological modernization,' he said.
Senior military leadership, formation commanders, and dignitaries from various services observed the exercise.
The army chief's statement comes amid rising tensions between Pakistan and India following the deadly April 22 attack in Pahalgam, occupied Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, mostly tourists. This attack is one of the deadliest in the region since 2000.
India has suggested cross-border links without providing evidence, a claim Pakistan has strongly rejected, instead calling for an independent, neutral investigation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on Saturday, described the Pahalgam attack as another example of the ongoing blame game, stating that Pakistan is open to any "neutral and transparent" investigation into the incident in India-occupied Kashmir.
On Wednesday, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reiterated that while Pakistan will not seek to escalate the situation, any provocation would be met with a robust response.
Meanwhile, global powers, including the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Turkey, and Qatar, have urged both nations to de-escalate tensions and seek diplomatic solutions.
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