Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has stirred up a diplomatic storm with provocative remarks on India’s history, claiming that the country “was never truly united” except during the rule of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Speaking to Pakistan’s Samaa TV, Asif also suggested that the “chances of war with India are real,” just days after New Delhi warned Islamabad to stop backing terrorism or risk “losing its geographical presence.”
“History shows that India was never one united nation, except briefly under Aurangzeb. Pakistan was created in the name of Allah. At home, we argue and compete. But in a fight with India, we come together,” Asif said during the interview.
His remarks have been widely dismissed as historically inaccurate. Long before Aurangzeb’s 17th-century rule, India saw powerful empires unify vast territories of the subcontinent. The Maurya Empire (322–185 BCE) under Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka established one of the largest and most centralized states in ancient India. Later, rulers like Samudragupta of the Gupta dynasty and Harshavardhana also achieved political consolidation across large parts of the region.
While Aurangzeb expanded the Mughal Empire to its greatest territorial extent, his reign was defined by constant warfare, rebellions, and instability. By contrast, Akbar’s rule saw significant consolidation, administrative reforms, and relative stability.
Asif’s comments come amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Last week, India’s Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi issued a stern warning to Islamabad, saying: “Either stop supporting terrorism or get ready to lose its geographical presence.” He added that India would not show the same restraint it did during Operation Sindoor 1.0, hinting at a stronger military response if provoked.
Asif, for his part, maintained that conflict remains a possibility: “I do not want escalation, but the risks are real, and I am not denying that. If it comes to war, God willing, we will achieve a better result than before.”
The Pakistani minister is no stranger to controversial statements. Just weeks ago, he made headlines by suggesting that citizens in flood-prone areas should “store” rainwater in containers as a solution to Pakistan’s flood crisis, calling the situation a “blessing.” During India’s Operation Sindoor, he also attempted to spread misinformation on CNN about downed Indian jets, citing unverified social media posts — a claim quickly dismissed by the anchor.
Asif’s latest remarks are being seen as both a provocation and an attempt to rally domestic sentiment amid rising pressure on Pakistan’s leadership. Meanwhile, India has reiterated its preparedness and warned that any escalation will be met with decisive action.