India Calls for IAEA Oversight of Pakistan’s Nuclear Weapons
India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to take control of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons. He made this appeal just days after the two nuclear-armed neighbors ended their most severe military clash in nearly 30 years. Singh questioned the safety of nuclear arms in Pakistan’s hands, describing the country as irresponsible and rogue.
The recent fighting erupted after India conducted strikes on what it described as “terrorist camps” in Pakistan. These strikes were in response to an attack in Indian Kashmir the previous month, which killed 26 soldiers and was allegedly supported by Pakistan. Islamabad denied these claims, and both nations subsequently launched missiles and drones into each other’s airspace before agreeing to a ceasefire on Saturday.
Diplomatic Responses and Regional Tensions
India’s demand that the IAEA supervise Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal has been strongly condemned by Pakistan’s foreign ministry. They labeled the remarks as a reflection of India’s insecurity and frustration over Pakistan’s effective defense against Indian aggression using conventional military means. The IAEA, headquartered in Vienna, monitors nuclear programs globally to ensure they are peaceful in nature.
Since both India and Pakistan became nuclear powers in 1998, their longstanding hostility has made South Asia one of the world’s most volatile nuclear hotspots. The recent conflict heightened concerns about the potential involvement of nuclear weapons. Pakistan’s military initially announced that a key nuclear oversight body would convene but later clarified that no such meeting was planned.
Ceasefire Extended and Calls for Peace
Following the ceasefire, the two countries agreed to extend it until Sunday after a phone conversation between their armed forces. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed this extension during a parliamentary session. Meanwhile, the Indian army announced ongoing confidence-building measures to reduce alert levels along the border.
US President Donald Trump commented on the resolution of the dispute, emphasizing a shift from conflict to trade. Speaking to US troops in Qatar, he expressed hope that the conflict was settled and encouraged both nations to focus on commerce rather than warfare. Trump also highlighted Washington’s diplomatic efforts in helping broker the ceasefire, though Indian officials stated the agreement was reached directly with Pakistan without trade discussions.
Ongoing Challenges and Statements from Leadership
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned that India would continue to target terrorist hideouts across the border if attacks resumed. He dismissed Islamabad’s threats as “nuclear blackmail” and asserted India would not be deterred. Pakistan criticized Modi’s remarks as provocative and a dangerous escalation of tensions.
Despite the fragile truce, the situation remains tense, with both sides closely monitoring developments. The call for the IAEA to oversee Pakistan’s nuclear weapons adds another dimension to the already complex relationship between the two neighbors.
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