Is Pakistan Preparing for Conflict? Military Drills and New NSA Appointment

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan military drills conducted near LoC showcase readiness.
- New NSA appointment from ISI aims to strengthen security.
- Live-fire demonstrations highlight operational capabilities.
- Response strategies are prepared in light of regional threats.
- Public reassurance of commitment to national sovereignty.
Islamabad, May 1 (NationPress) — The Pakistan military initiated extensive military exercises on Thursday in regions adjacent to the Working Boundary and the Line of Control (LoC). This demonstration of military strength featured advanced weaponry and aimed to affirm the preparedness of its forces in response to potential Indian actions following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack.
These military drills coincide with Islamabad's strategic decision to appoint the current Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) as the new National Security Advisor (NSA), a pivotal move amid increasing regional tensions and shifting internal and external dynamics.
According to sources within the military, the exercises included live-fire demonstrations. “Officers and troops from various units participated in the drills, showcasing high-level operational skills and employing advanced battlefield systems,” stated a military source.
The Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DGISPR) emphasized on Wednesday that Rawalpindi is vigilantly observing the situation across all terrains. “We are monitoring the situation very carefully in all terrains and are prepared with our responses and counterterrorism strategies across all domains. According to the National Security Council declaration, decisive action will be taken if provoked,” affirmed Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry during a press briefing.
“The people of Pakistan are resolute in defending the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the nation at all costs,” he added.
Lt. General Muhammad Asim Malik’s appointment as the nation’s NSA signifies the first instance where a serving DGISI has assumed the additional role of NSA. Malik is now the country’s tenth NSA, a position that has remained vacant since April 2022, following the ousting of the government led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 tragically claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists and left numerous others critically injured in the Baisaran Valley.