Pakistan Claims India Trying to Engage It on Two Fronts
Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif claimed on 1 November 2025 that India is deliberately seeking to keep Pakistan “busy” on both its eastern and western borders. He accused India of waging a proxy war against Pakistan, saying the tactic began during the era of former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and persists to date. He added Islamabad would present proof if necessary.
Context of Regional Tensions
The comments come after renewed tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, where Pakistan had fought a brief conflict last month before agreeing to a ceasefire. Asif pointed to the emerging ceasefire with Afghanistan and argued it did not diminish the broader threat from India. His remarks also followed assertions that Kabul was acting as a proxy for New Delhi—a claim rejected by Afghan officials.
Implications for South Asian Security
Such statements deepen concerns about escalation in the region, especially given Pakistan’s location and longstanding disputes with India. Analysts say the dual-front allegation reflects Islamabad’s strategic narrative of being encircled, which may influence its diplomatic posture, defence planning and alliances. The international community is likely to watch whether such rhetoric transitions into military or diplomatic action.
