The aftermath of India's 'Operation Sindoor' targeting terrorist camps in Pakistani territories, including Pakistan-administered Kashmir, has stirred upheaval in Pakistan. Pakistan now pleads with the international community and media, arguing they were ready to probe the Pahalgam attack, but India pre-emptively struck first.
During this storm, Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, while giving an interview to a foreign news channel, made claims far from reality. Consequently, the anchor not only questioned him but also unveiled Pakistan's hidden terrorist activities.
'Our Aircraft Were Ready'
The Pakistani minister claimed that India targeted five different sites in Pakistan, causing numerous casualties.
In an interview with Sky News, Tarar stated, "India attacked at midnight while we planned to take foreign and local journalists to Bahawalpur and Murit. We had a whole schedule planned, our aircraft were ready." When asked about the Indian army's claim of attacking nine terror-focused locations, sparing Pakistani military establishments, Tarar responded defiantly.
Tarar retorted boldly, "There are no terror camps in Pakistan. We are the primary victims of terrorism, losing 90,000 lives in this battle. Our soldiers are still making the ultimate sacrifice in Balochistan and beyond." The minister claimed that Pakistan stands at the frontline against terror, battling insurgents on the western borders with unwavering resolve.
Anchor Reminds Minister of Past Admissions
The show’s anchor reminded him that Pakistan's own Defense Minister Khawaja Asif admitted on this program a week ago to Pakistan's history of supporting, funding, and training terror outfits. Furthermore, past leaders like Pervez Musharraf and Benazir Bhutto publicly acknowledged this, with even Bilawal Bhutto conceding.
The anchor stated, “In 2018, U.S. President Donald Trump halted military aid to Pakistan, accusing it of harboring terrorists. Thus, the claim of 'no terror camps in Pakistan' contradicts statements from your senior leaders. Funding and supporting terrorist organizations have been entrenched in Pakistan's history and persist today.”
'Laden Was Found in Pakistan Too'
In response, the minister said, “There is a misunderstanding. Following 9/11, Pakistan was on the frontlines and remains the foremost nation fighting to eradicate terrorism. We stand as the world’s peace guarantor, acting as a barrier between terrorists and the rest of the world. I invite you to visit Pakistan to see for yourself.” The anchor swiftly retorted, “Having visited Pakistan, it's known that Osama bin Laden was found in Abbottabad, drawing global revelations.”
When pressed on whether charges against India were mere propaganda, Tarar insisted India repeatedly violates their sovereignty, assuming the roles of judge and jury. He firmly asserted their right to retaliate.
Prepared to Investigate, But India Acted First
The anchor highlighted India's accusation that Pakistan was behind the April 22 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which the Resistance Front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for. Tarar responded, “India lacks evidence. We were prepared for investigations, inviting involvement from entities like the UN and UK. However, India dismissed an inquiry and attacked directly.” The full interview can be seen here—
'International Community Should Intervene'
Atta Tarar described how Pakistan has addressed its stance before the international community. “Our Prime Minister has conversed with leaders across nations, including the UN Secretary-General, Iran, Malaysia, China, Saudi Arabia, and others. We cautioned that India might pursue an assault.” Asked if tensions might escalate, Tarar replied, “The situation is rapidly evolving. We are engaged in defensive actions. India should not mistake our desire for peace as weakness. If they strike again, our counter-response will be harsher.”
