If America attacks Pakistan, Delhi and Mumbai will be targets: Statement of former Pak ambassador Abdul Basit

 Islamabad: Former Pakistani diplomat Abdul Basit has said in a statement that if the US attacks Pakistan in the future, major Indian cities could be targeted in retaliation. His comments come at a time when regional security discussions are intensifying due to rising tensions in West Asia.

Speaking to a Pakistani TV channel, Basit said that if the US and Israel jointly attacked Pakistan, Islamabad would have limited options. He claimed that Pakistan does not possess missiles capable of hitting the US or Israel, so a “closer target” like India could be targeted. He cited the example of Delhi and Mumbai being attacked in such a situation.

Basit served as Pakistan’s ambassador to India from 2014 to 2017. His statement has sparked heated debate in strategic circles. Analysts say such statements reflect a mindset of viewing India as a potential pressure point. The mention of Delhi and Mumbai also evokes events like the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks .

According to reports, some security experts believe this statement reflects Pakistan’s strategic approach, which considers India a primary target. However, there has been no official response from the Pakistani government to this comment.

Meanwhile, Tulsi Gabbard , head of the US intelligence community , recently described Pakistan as a security concern. Benjamin Netanyahu has also previously described Pakistan as a global security challenger.

Experts say such statements could escalate regional tensions. India has already stressed strengthening its security apparatus and claims the capability to deal with any potential threat.