Washington: Amidst economic challenges, Pakistan’s commitment to its nuclear modernization persists, fueled by its contentious relationship with India, as revealed by Lt Gen Jeffrey Kruse, a top US intelligence official, during a recent Congressional hearing on China.
Kruse highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to seek international support, including engagement with the UN Security Council, to address its longstanding dispute with India over Kashmir. Despite maintaining an uneasy ceasefire along the Line of Control since February 2021, Pakistan remains focused on modernizing its nuclear capabilities amidst increased terrorist violence against its security forces and civilians.
Facing economic strain, Pakistan relies on support from allies like China and Saudi Arabia, with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb currently in Washington to discuss a new loan package with the International Monetary Fund.
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Kruse emphasized that Pakistan’s defense policy continues to be shaped by its relationship with India, with ongoing efforts to modernize its nuclear arsenal and enhance command and control systems. Notably, Pakistan successfully tested its Ababeel medium-range ballistic missile in October.
In 2023, terrorist attacks claimed the lives of approximately 400 security forces in Pakistan, marking a nine-year high, prompting frequent counterterrorism operations by Pakistani security forces.
The longstanding tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi stem from issues such as the Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism. Pakistan downgraded diplomatic ties with India in 2019 following India’s decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. India maintains its stance on normalizing relations with Pakistan, emphasizing the need for Islamabad to address terrorism for meaningful engagement.
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Pakistan’s nuclear journey dates back to the 1950s, initially framed as an energy initiative. The establishment of the Atomic Energy Commission in 1956 marked the beginning of concerted efforts, with support from the US through initiatives like the “Atoms for Peace.” Despite claims of peaceful intentions, Pakistan’s nuclear ambitions have been scrutinized, with reports suggesting it possesses 170 nuclear warheads as of January 2023.
