Pak Defence Minister warns India: “Will bury India under its own warplanes” — tensions rise

A sharp exchange of threats between New Delhi and Islamabad escalated on [date], after Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a stark warning to India, saying the neighbouring country would be “buried under the wreckage of its warplanes” if it pursued military action.

The remarks came two days after India’s Army Chief warned Pakistan to stop sponsoring terrorism or “risk being erased from the world map.” The public spat has drawn swift rebuttals from officials on both sides and raised concerns among regional and international observers about rising rhetoric along an already tense frontier.

What was said

• Khawaja Asif: In a televised statement, the defence minister condemned what he described as bellicose comments from New Delhi and warned that any military misadventure would be met with a fierce response. He used the phrase about India being “buried under the wreckage of its warplanes,” a remark that drew immediate attention for its severity.

• Indian military response: Indian defence sources and senior military leaders reiterated New Delhi’s stance that it will not tolerate cross-border terrorism and emphasised deterrence. The Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, highlighted the force’s long-range strike capabilities, saying: “And it will go down in the history that longest kill that we achieved of more than 300 kilometres by that,” a comment underlining operational reach amid the tensions.

Context and reactions

The exchange forms part of a recent run of strong statements on both sides. India’s Defence Minister and Army Chief had earlier warned Pakistan against sponsoring militant activity across the border. Islamabad’s retort came as Pakistan accused India of aggressive posturing and stressed it would defend its sovereignty.

Diplomatic and security analysts warned that inflammatory language between senior officials risks reducing the margin for de-escalation. Several foreign missions and think-tanks have called for restraint and urged both capitals to rely on established diplomatic channels and confidence-building measures to avoid miscalculation.

What this could mean

• Deterrence and signalling: Both countries appear intent on signalling strength to domestic and international audiences. Public comments about long-range capabilities and stern warnings serve as deterrence but can also inflame tensions.

• Risk of escalation: Analysts caution that while rhetoric does not always presage action, misunderstanding or a tactical incident along the Line of Control or international borders could rapidly escalate if political leaders and militaries do not temper statements with back-channel diplomacy.

• International response: Global powers and regional organisations typically urge calm in such moments. Any further deterioration would invite engagement from external stakeholders who favour stability in South Asia.

The bottom line

The latest volley of threats highlights a volatile phase in India‑Pakistan relations, where military postures and public rhetoric are again rising. Observers say the immediate need is de‑escalation and clearer diplomatic communication to prevent misunderstandings that could have far-reaching consequences.