India Rejects Sharif’s Claims of Victory, Defends Military Actions

India has strongly criticized Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his claims of “victory” at the recent United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The Indian government responded by highlighting the devastation of Pakistani airbases following Indian military strikes, asserting that it will not succumb to what it described as nuclear blackmail.

In a pointed remark during the UNGA, Petal Gahlot, a first secretary at India’s UN Mission, dismissed Sharif’s assertion of triumph over India, stating, “If destroyed runways and burnt-out hangars look like victory, Pakistan is welcome to enjoy it.” Gahlot delivered these remarks in response to Sharif’s speech, which included accusations against India and claims regarding the ongoing conflict between the two nations.

India’s position was clear: it maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and holds both terrorists and their sponsors accountable. Gahlot emphasized, “There will be no distinction between the terrorists and their sponsors.” She reinforced India’s commitment to combatting terrorism and indicated that it will not allow such actions to be concealed under threats of nuclear warfare.

Gahlot pointed out that terrorism is central to Pakistan’s foreign policy, criticizing the country for allegedly glorifying such acts. She referenced a specific incident involving the Resistance Front (TRF), a group accused of orchestrating attacks against tourists in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. During her address, she stated, “No degree of drama and no level of lies can conceal the facts,” as she condemned Pakistan’s actions and its role as a state sponsor of terrorism.

The Indian official also addressed recent developments in the military conflict, noting that just days before the ceasefire request on May 10, 2023, Pakistan had been threatening further attacks. Gahlot explained, “Till May 9, Pakistan was threatening more attacks on India. But on May 10, its military pleaded with us directly for a cessation to the fighting.” The shift in Pakistan’s stance, according to Gahlot, was prompted by significant damage inflicted on multiple Pakistani airbases by Indian forces.

In defending Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist hideouts within Pakistan, Gahlot reiterated India’s right to protect its citizens from acts of terrorism. She stated, “The truth is that as in the past, Pakistan is responsible for a terrorist attack on innocent civilians in India.” The operation, which aimed to dismantle terror infrastructure, was framed as a necessary response to ongoing threats.

As tensions between the two nations continue, India has made it clear that it will remain steadfast in its approach to security and counterterrorism, rejecting any form of intimidation. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, as both countries navigate their complex and often contentious relationship.