Pakistan’s first chief of defense forces says future response to India will be 'far more severe'

Pakistan’s newly appointed Chief of Defense Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, said on Monday that New Delhi should avoid any “illusion or miscalculation,” warning that Pakistan’s response to future provocations would be “swifter and far more severe.”

Munir made the remarks during his maiden address to officers of the Army, Navy and Air Force at the newly established Defense Forces Headquarters, calling the creation of the unified command a “historic” step in strengthening Pakistan’s joint multi-domain operational capabilities.

Tensions between Pakistan and India escalated sharply following a deadly April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 tourists. India blamed Pakistan-based militants - claims Pakistan has denied - and launched air and missile strikes across the Line of Control.

By May 7, both sides had exchanged heavy artillery and drone fire, raising fears of all-out war. A “full and immediate ceasefire” was brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump on May 10, bringing an end to the hostilities.

In his address, Munir also sent a firm message to Afghanistan, stating that the Taliban regime must choose between supporting militant groups or maintaining ties with Pakistan, leaving “no third option.”

Despite the establishment of a top-level tri-services command, Munir stressed that each branch would retain its distinct character and operational autonomy, while the CDF would ensure coordination and integration of joint operations.

Earlier, a guard of honor was presented at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi by contingents of the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Senior military officials, including the chiefs of Navy and Air Force, attended the ceremony, which formally marked Munir’s assumption of the newly created post.

The CDF position was established under the 27th Constitutional Amendment, replacing the former Chief of Joint Staff Committee (CJSC) role.

President Asif Ali Zardari approved Munir’s appointment on Dec. 4 following a summary from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Analysts said the move aims to modernize Pakistan’s armed forces while sending a clear deterrence signal to regional rivals.