The nuclear program is for defence; war is no joke: Ishaq Dar

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar told the Senate that “war is no joke,” and Pakistan’s nuclear and missile programs are strictly for defensive purposes.

He warned against the spread of fake news and misinformation, citing examples of AI-generated videos and old interviews being misrepresented. He strongly denied a false statement attributed to an Iranian general claiming Pakistan would retaliate against Israel with a nuclear strike, stating: “Pakistan has made no such statement.”

Dar emphasised that Pakistan’s nuclear program is secure and responsibly managed. Despite not signing the NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty), Pakistan has always acted responsibly.

He added that during the Iran-Israel conflict, Pakistan played a constructive role at the UN Security Council and maintained diplomatic communication with Iran.

According to Dar, Iran’s Foreign Minister told him that if Israel refrains from further attacks, Iran is willing to return to negotiations, and Pakistan is ready to facilitate the peace process.