Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif has stated that Pakistan’s right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, amid rising tensions with India, during a meeting with Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir, according to PTV News.
During the meeting in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz emphasized Pakistan's unwavering commitment to protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also commending Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions and promote peace.
Minister al-Jubeir extended condolences over the loss of Pakistani lives in recent hostilities, expressing Saudi Arabia’s deep concern over the situation in South Asia. He reiterated his country’s call for calm and dialogue, and the resolution of all outstanding issues between Pakistan and India in line with international law and UN Security Council resolutions.
PM Shehbaz strongly condemned what he termed India’s unprovoked aggression, citing missile and drone strikes that resulted in the deaths of innocent civilians, including women and children, and damage to civilian infrastructure. He warned that such acts pose a serious threat to regional peace and stability.
On the other side of the border, Indian officials claimed the strikes were in response to intense artillery shelling by Pakistani forces along the Line of Control (LoC). According to New Delhi, nearly 400 drones were launched by Pakistan across 36 locations, stretching from Siachen to Sir Creek, in what they described as a large-scale incursion attempt.
Indian defence officials said 50 drones were destroyed using anti-aircraft guns, while 20 others were neutralized by jamming radio frequencies. Most drones were reported to be unarmed, though some were equipped with cameras likely transmitting surveillance footage back to Pakistan. Sources indicated the drones included Asiguard SONGAR models, known for their capabilities in both day and night operations within a 5km range.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s military spokesperson, DG ISPR, said 33 civilians, including seven women and five children, had been killed in Indian attacks so far. An additional 76 people were injured, including 14 military personnel.
“You kill two-year-old children and celebrate it? It is shameful,” said DG ISPR, criticizing Indian media coverage. He urged the Indian government to “act responsibly” and avoid escalating tensions, stressing that regional cooperation and mutual respect for sovereignty are essential for long-term peace.
He also warned India against adopting a hegemonic posture in the region, stating:
“Have some sense. Don’t externalise your internal problems or internalise your external ones. Respect the sovereignty of other nations. Live like a responsible state.”
The DG ISPR called on friendly nations in the region to play a role in defusing tensions and jointly addressing shared security threats. (Source: Dawn and other news syndicates)
