The recent narrative emerging in Western publications, particularly the Foreign Affairs article dated June 24, 2025, claiming that Pakistan is developing intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of striking the United States, demands urgent scrutiny.
Pakistan’s nuclear doctrine has always been India-centric, rooted in full-spectrum deterrence designed to maintain regional stability. The idea that Pakistan, with no strategic interest in confrontation with the US, is building ICBMs lacks both logic and publicly verifiable evidence. Such claims not only misrepresent Pakistan’s posture but also risk inflaming tensions in an already volatile region.
Meanwhile, India, ironically framed as a stable ally, possesses operational long-range Agni-V missiles and is reportedly developing Agni-VI with far greater reach. India has a complete nuclear triad, growing strategic depth and an increasingly assertive military posture. Yet its nuclear expansion receives far less global scrutiny. This selective perception raises a troubling question: is this a calculated attempt to shift the global narrative — one that unfairly vilifies Pakistan while shielding India?
We must not ignore the possibility that this is part of a larger geopolitical script aimed at isolating Pakistan diplomatically while allowing India to expand unchecked. In an era of narrative warfare, facts are too often shaped by alliances, not objectivity.
Pakistan’s record, while not perfect, does not support the claim of offensive intent against the West. If there is a real nuclear risk in South Asia, it lies in the growing asymmetry of how the world views two nuclear powers with vastly different trajectories, but only one is questioned.
The world must remain cautious of real threats, not be misled by strategic misdirections.
Faisal I Siddiqi
Mississauga, Canada
