Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has warned that India continues its attempts to destabilize the region.
Speaking to the Pakistani community in the United States on Sunday, Asim Munir warns India, saying any act of aggression will be met with a “forceful and befitting response.”
“India is still bent on creating instability in the region, and Pakistan has made it clear that any Indian aggression will be met with a befitting response,” Munir said.
Asim Munir is on an official visit to the United States. During his trip, he has met senior political and military leaders. He also attended the retirement ceremony of outgoing US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Michael E. Kurilla. Additionally, he witnessed the change of command ceremony for Admiral Brad Cooper in Tampa.
The visit marks his second US trip in six weeks. Munir described it as a “sign of a new dimension” in Pakistan–US relations, aimed at putting ties on a constructive, sustainable, and positive path.
Munir accused India of trying to portray itself as a “Vishwaguru” (world leader). However, he said, “there is nothing of the sort.” He cited transnational terrorism by India’s intelligence agency RAW as a major global concern. Asim Munir warns against India’s portrayal, indicating concerns about such global terrorism.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir while addressing Pakistani community in the US 🇺🇸 🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/faIz3Dm6Uj
— Pakistan Strategic Forum (@ForumStrategic) August 10, 2025
He pointed to the killing of a Sikh leader in Canada, the arrest of eight Indian naval officers in Qatar, and the capture of Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav in Pakistan as examples.
The army chief condemned “recent Indian aggression” as a grave violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty. He said it led to the martyrdom of innocent civilians and pushed the region to “the brink of a dangerously escalating war.”
Asim Munir warns India about the consequences of these actions and thanked US President Donald Trump for his “strategic leadership” in helping prevent a potential war between India and Pakistan.
“Pakistan gave a resolute and robust response to India’s provocation and prevented a wider confrontation,” Munir stressed.
The COAS reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir is “not India’s internal matter” but an “unfinished international agenda.” Quoting Pakistan’s founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, he said Kashmir is Pakistan’s “jugular vein.” He reiterated that United Nation Security Council (UNSC) resolutions on Kashmir remain valid.
Munir warned about multiple terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan, including the fitna-al-khawarij, targeting Pakistan.
“Pakistan is the last stronghold in the fight against terrorism. There will be no sympathy for terrorists, and they will face justice with full force,” he said.
Overseas Pakistanis as “Brain Gain”
Addressing overseas Pakistanis, Munir praised them as “a source of dignity and honour.” He called them “brain gain” instead of “brain drain” and acknowledged their deep attachment to the homeland.
He said overseas Pakistanis play a key role during disasters and crises. Their devotion and contributions, he added, are crucial for Pakistan’s prosperity.
Munir highlighted the growing influence of social media. However, he cautioned that “anti-state elements” are using it to spread “manufactured chaos.” Asim Munir warns about the misuse of social media by these elements.
Quoting the Holy Qur’an, he added: “O you who believe, if a wicked person comes to you with news, ascertain the truth, lest you harm people unwittingly and afterwards become full of regret for what you have done.”
He also stressed the need to understand the younger generation. Their thinking, relationships, and priorities differ, he said, and Pakistan must adapt to engage them effectively.
Diplomatic and economic gains
On the diplomatic front, Munir said Pakistan had achieved “notable successes.” He mentioned ongoing memoranda of understanding with the United States, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China to boost investment and cooperation.
He noted that Pakistan’s youth, 64pc of the population are full of potential. Recent diplomatic and security gains against India, he added, are the result of Allah’s blessings, national unity, strong political resolve, and the skill of Pakistan’s armed forces.
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“The question before us is no longer whether we will rise. The question is how soon and with how much strength we will rise. Let us, with a new spirit and purpose, move forward while preserving the legacy of our forefathers.” Asim Munir warns India about being cautious in the face of Pakistan’s new spirit.