India Questions Pakistan's Nuclear Program Credibility on Global Stage
India Raises Concerns Over Pakistan's Nuclear Threat
India has once again cast doubt on the credibility of Pakistan's nuclear program and its 'secret history' on the international stage. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed support on Thursday for a U.S. intelligence report that identifies Pakistan as a significant nuclear threat to both the U.S. and the world. During a media briefing, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "Pakistan has a long-standing and covert history of nuclear proliferation. The U.S. report merely reiterates the truth that India has been asserting for a long time."
U.S. Report on Pakistan's Nuclear Threat
On March 18, a report released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence recognized Pakistan as a major nuclear threat to the United States, placing it alongside major powers like Russia and China.
U.S. intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard presented the '2026 Annual Threat Assessment,' which raised concerns about Pakistan's growing military capabilities, its role in regional instability, and the ongoing threat of terrorism. The report indicated that Pakistan is actively developing advanced missile delivery systems, including long-range ballistic missiles that could potentially evolve into intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the U.S.
Concerns Over Missile Technologies
In her initial address to the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Gabbard noted that while the U.S. nuclear deterrent remains secure, several countries, including Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan, are advancing missile technologies that could pose a threat to U.S. territory.
Pakistan's Role in Global Fight Against Islamic Extremism
The report also highlights Pakistan's ongoing relevance in the global fight against Islamic extremism. It mentions that although groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS have weakened compared to their peak, the threat remains complex and ever-evolving, with these entities attempting to expand their global reach and target U.S. interests.
Particular concern was raised regarding the 'ISIS Khorasan Province,' identified as a significant external threat in South Asia. This group is believed to be active in areas with weak governance, using these regions for recruitment and planning attacks.
Impact of U.S. Military Operations
According to the report, U.S. military operations in countries like Iraq, Pakistan, Somalia, and Syria, in coordination with international partners, resulted in the elimination of several key terrorist leaders during 2025. This success has weakened the operational capabilities of Al-Qaeda and ISIS to carry out attacks against U.S. and foreign interests.
India's Energy Supply Strategy Amid Regional Conflicts
Addressing the challenges in oil and energy supply due to ongoing conflicts in West Asia, Jaiswal stated that India is working to diversify its energy sources and is exploring alternatives for LPG supply from other parts of the world.
He remarked, "We are working on this, making efforts, and we will do everything possible to meet our energy security needs. We purchase oil from all over the world. If tankers are arriving from one part (X) or another (Y), that is normal. We will have many more tankers coming in as we continue to procure energy."
He further added that India is buying crude oil from various parts of the world, including multiple options involving Russia, and this trend will continue.