Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Friday informed the National Assembly that recent drone attacks by India was intended for reconnaissance purposes rather than immediate strikes.
Speaking on the floor of National Assembly, Khawaja Asif said that Indian drones were allowed to enter a “safe limit” before intercepting and neutralising them to avoid compromising sensitive locations.
He assured lawmakers that the armed forces were fully prepared to respond to any escalation. “No one should doubt that our armed forces are fully engaged in responding to Indian aggression,” he said. “We are 200 per cent prepared for any situation,” the defence minister added, noting high morale within the military.
He further said that nations such as China, Turkiye, and Azerbaijan had voiced clear support for Pakistan.
Asif further said that the government is engaged in daily diplomatic contacts with countries including Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, China, and Qatar, in efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Read more: 'Will avenge every drop of martyrs' blood,' PM warns India
Separately, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman condemned Indian aggression and expressed support for Pakistan’s armed forces.
Addressing the National Assembly, he said India had targeted mosques, religious seminaries, and civilian areas, resulting in casualties.
He announced that the JUI-F was observing "Youm-e-Dafa Watan" (Defence of the Homeland Day) and shared plans for public rallies in solidarity with the armed forces.
"A march is scheduled in Peshawar on May 11, followed by another in Quetta on May 15," JUI-F chief said.
It should be noted here that the Pakistan army intercepted and destroyed 77 Israeli-made Harop drones, sent by India to target civilian and military installations, Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar confirmed on Friday.
At least 29 drones were intercepted since Wednesday until Thursday evening, with an additional 48 shot down overnight and into Friday.
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