In a provocative and hostile speech laced with threats against India, Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir reportedly suggested that Reliance Industries Ltd’s Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat could be a target in the event of a future military clash.
This is believed to be the first instance of a Pakistani military leader openly signalling an intention to strike at India’s critical oil infrastructure.
‘We’ll Show Them What’s Next’
Speaking at a private dinner gathering in Tampa, Florida, Munir referred to a social media post depicting RIL chairman Mukesh Ambani alongside a Quranic verse, claiming that he had personally authorised its release during a recent standoff with India “to show them what we will do next time,” according to a report by The Times of India.
The verse from Surah Al-Fil (The Elephant) is often interpreted as an allegory for an aerial assault in modern military terms. Historically, it refers to the ‘Year of the Elephant’ (circa 570 CE), when, according to tradition, an invading army led by Yemen’s ruler Abraha was destroyed by divine intervention—flocks of birds pelting them with stones of baked clay, the report added.
IBNS has not independently verified the developments.
By naming Mukesh Ambani, Munir appeared to single out an individual representing India’s economic clout and global stature.
Addressing members of the Pakistani diaspora, Munir also reportedly issued a nuclear threat, stating that Pakistan would resort to nuclear weapons if confronted with an existential threat in a future war with India.
India Reacts Strongly
Reacting strongly to Munir’s nuclear remarks made on US soil, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi has consistently maintained that it will not succumb to nuclear blackmail and will continue taking all measures required to ensure national security.
The MEA further stated that Munir’s statements validated longstanding concerns over the safety and integrity of Pakistan’s nuclear command and control structure, pointing to the close nexus between its military establishment and terrorist organisations.
“Pakistan strongly rejects the immature remarks made by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs earlier today…,” Pakistan’s Foreign Office said in response to media queries regarding the MEA’s statement.
Munir’s remarks came as he wrapped up his second high-profile visit to the United States in less than two months, during which he held meetings with senior American military and civilian officials and engaged with members of the Pakistani community.
(With inputs from IBNS)
