Pakistan has authorized its armed forces to respond to India's airstrikes. This decision was made on Wednesday (May 7) during a meeting of the National Security Committee led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
After the meeting, Islamabad announced, "Pakistan's armed forces have been duly authorized to take necessary action in this regard," according to Geo News.
According to a Geo TV report, the National Security Committee described India's attacks on Pakistan as "unwarranted acts of war" and "a blatant violation of sovereignty." The committee strongly condemned the missile, air, and drone strikes across Punjab and Azad Kashmir, stating that under Article 51 of the UN Charter, Pakistan reserves the right to respond and has granted the armed forces the authority to take necessary measures.
The National Security Committee also praised the military for shooting down five Indian fighter jets and a drone over Pakistani territory. Pakistan's military spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, confirmed the downing of five Indian aircraft and a combat drone, including three Rafales, one MiG-29, and one Su-57.
The committee stated that India's deliberate targeting of civilian areas, including mosques and homes, led to the deaths of innocent men, women, and children, which is a clear violation of international law. The blame for escalating regional tensions, the committee asserted, lies entirely with India. It also called on the global community to hold India accountable.
Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry summoned the Indian Chargé d'Affaires to lodge a strong protest against the "unprovoked Indian aggression."
