‘If Pakistan Is Attacked, We’ll Target Mumbai And Delhi’: Ex-Envoy’s Warning Sparks Outrage

Islamabad: A statement by former Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit has raised concerns in India. Recently a video surfaced in which he said that if America or Israel attacks Pakistan, India can be targeted in response.

What did Basit say that increased the controversy?

According to reports, Basit hinted during a discussion that if Pakistan could not reach out to its enemies directly, India could become an “easy target”. He mentioned big cities like Delhi and Mumbai, which made the statement more sensitive.

How is this statement being viewed in India?

This statement is being taken seriously in India. Security agencies believe that such statements are not just personal opinions but can also be an indication of larger thinking. This raises fears of a “hybrid threat”, where indirect methods are adopted instead of direct war.

Is this statement just a statement or a bigger hint?

Experts say that such statements are not just an emotional reaction. As a former diplomat, Basit's words cannot be taken lightly. This also indicates that India may be seen as a “default target” at times of regional tension.

Will this affect India-Pakistan relations?

This statement has made the atmosphere more sensitive amid already tense relations. The lack of trust between India and Pakistan is already a big challenge, and such statements can further increase the distance between the two countries.

Is this matter related to larger global tensions?

This dispute is not limited to India-Pakistan only. Amidst the ongoing tension between America, Israel and Iran, such statements show that any major conflict can affect many countries.

What effect can be seen in future?

At present this statement remains a topic of discussion in political and security circles. In the coming time, there may be a strong reaction to such statements or even a response at the diplomatic level.Keeping such statements in mind, security agencies can increase vigilance and surveillance can be strengthened in sensitive areas.

Apart from this, there can be a reaction to such statement at the international level also, because it is an issue related to regional stability. Overall, this matter may remain in discussion in the coming days on both diplomatic and security fronts.