Pakistan Ballistic Missile Test Amid Tensions
The successful test of the Abdali Weapon System demonstrates Pakistan's military capabilities and its commitment to ensuring operational readiness. The test has sparked concerns in India, which views it as a reckless provocation, and has responded with prompt and proportionate responses to ceasefire violations along the LoC and International Border in Jammu and Kashmir.
Pakistan's military has successfully tested a surface-to-surface missile system, called the "Abdali Weapon System," with a range of 450km, amid heightened tensions with India over a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir. The test was part of an exercise aimed at ensuring operational readiness and validating technical parameters.
The test came after Islamabad said it had "credible intelligence" that India was planning to strike in response to the attack, which killed 25 tourists and a Kashmiri. India has accused Pakistan of backing the attack and has given its military "full operational freedom" to respond. Pakistan has denied any involvement. The two countries have exchanged diplomatic barbs and gunfire along the Line of Control, and Pakistan has threatened to suspend its participation in the 1972 agreement that underpins the LoC.
The launch was part of "Ex Indus" and aimed at ensuring operational readiness and validating technical parameters. The test was witnessed by senior officials and scientists, and President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and services chiefs congratulated the participating troops and scientists. The test launch was seen as a warning shot, indicating Pakistan's preparedness to counter India, according to analysts.
The army's top brass has warned India of a strong response should it attempt to impose war, and diplomatic channels have been engaged to prevent conflict. The situation remains tense, with both countries on high alert, and the international community is watching the developments closely, urging restraint and dialogue to resolve the issues peacefully.