Pakistan’s Deputy Mamer Aurangzeb Ahmed described the Pulwama attack as a “tactical glow,” amid ongoing tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad following the recent Pahargam terrorist incident. His remarks have circulated widely on social media, prompting considerable reaction.
“There can be no compromise if Pakistan’s land, air, or water is under threat. We aimed to communicate this with our tactical glow during the Pulwama incident, and we’ve also demonstrated our strategic capabilities,” Ahmed said during a press conference that included foreign journalists.
In 2019, a suicide bombing claimed by Pakistan-based Jaish e Mohammed (JEM) resulted in the deaths of 40 Indian paramilitary personnel as they were targeted in a Central Reserve Police (CRPF) convoy. India retaliated with an airstrike on a JEM training camp in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan.
This retaliation led to a dogfight with Pakistani aircraft, and Indian pilot Abinandavartaman was captured before being released shortly afterward. However, the relationship between these nuclear-armed neighbors has continued to deteriorate.
The internet responds
Ahmed’s comments quickly attracted significant attention online, with many questioning Pakistan’s longstanding denial of any involvement in the Pulwama attack. One user expressed disbelief, asking, “Did he really admit to the Pulwama attack?” Another highlighted the acknowledgment as an admission of guilt from Pakistan regarding the deaths of 40 Indian soldiers.
“Pakistan just confessed!” read another post, emphasizing that the military’s acknowledgment points to a broader recognition of their role in such actions.
Pakistan’s fear link
This unusual statement from Pakistan comes even as officials in the country continue to deny responsibility for the Pahargam attack on April 22nd, asserting that India lacks evidence linking Islamabad to the incident.
Yet, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Kawaja Asif recently reaffirmed allegations of state-sponsored terrorism. In an April interview with Sky News, he acknowledged past support for terrorist groups, stating, “We’ve been doing this dirty work for the United States for about 30 years… that’s a mistake and we’ve been struggling because of it.”
