Former Pakistan Diplomat Outlines Hypothetical Military Scenario Involving India
In a startling and provocative statement, Abdul Basit, who served as Pakistan's High Commissioner to India from 2014 to 2017, has suggested that Pakistan could launch attacks on major Indian cities, including Delhi and Mumbai, if it faces an existential military threat from the United States or Israel. Basit described this as a worst-case scenario, emphasizing its improbability but outlining the strategic rationale behind such a move.
Basit's Hypothetical Justification for Targeting India
Speaking about a hypothetical situation where Pakistan is attacked by the US, Basit argued that if Pakistan cannot reach US bases in the Gulf or strike Israel due to range or operational limitations, India would become the default target. "If the US attacks Pakistan and we cannot reach their bases in the Gulf or strike Israel, then what would be our only option? India," he stated. He further elaborated that in such circumstances, Pakistan would not hesitate, adding, "We would have nothing else to do. Even if our range does not extend there, if someone casts a hostile eye on us, we would, without hesitation, attack India — Mumbai, New Delhi — we would not hold back."
Context and Clarifications from the Former Envoy
Basit clarified that this scenario is highly unlikely, noting Pakistan's capability to defend itself. He mentioned potential triggers, such as a worsening situation in Iran or if the US views Pakistan's nuclear program negatively. "Let's say the situation in Iran worsens and Israel moves closer to us. Suppose a scenario arises in which the US also views our nuclear programme negatively or attempts to target our nuclear capability," he explained. Despite downplaying the likelihood, Basit stressed that consequences would be secondary, with Pakistan dealing with fallout later.
Timing Amid Regional Volatility
These remarks come at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with conflicts involving Iran, the US, and Israel entering a more volatile phase. Over the past weeks, military strikes have expanded across multiple fronts, including reported Israeli actions in Tehran and Beirut, and ongoing US strategic operations. Basit's comments highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics and potential spillover effects that could involve South Asia.
While Basit reiterated that such an attack on India remains a theoretical possibility, his statements have sparked concerns about regional stability and the implications of escalating global conflicts. The former diplomat's hypothetical musings underscore the need for diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution to prevent worst-case scenarios from materializing.
