Recent claims by Hindustan Times in their article “Pakistan To Send Nuke-Capable Missiles To Iran Amid Israel War Fear? Biden Aide Has This Message” suggesting that Pakistan is poised to supply Iran with nuclear-capable Shaheen 2 missiles are not only baseless but also serve to inflame an already delicate geopolitical landscape. Such narratives, whether born of misunderstanding or deliberate disinformation, overlook several critical aspects that underscore the implausibility of this scenario.
Firstly, it’s essential to recognize Iran’s existing missile capabilities. Over the years, Iran has developed a sophisticated arsenal of ballistic and cruise missiles capable of reaching targets well beyond its immediate geographical vicinity, including Israel. The Iranian missile program, which includes medium-range ballistic missiles like the Shahab-3 and the more advanced Khorramshahr, already poses a credible deterrent without any external assistance. These systems boast ranges of up to 2,000 kilometers and have been tested and operationalized within Iran’s strategic framework.
In the backdrop, the idea that Iran would need to import ballistic missiles from Pakistan, a country with which it shares no formal military alliance or significant strategic partnership appears to be, is implausible. Moreover Iran’s indigenous capabilities, honed over decades of development, negate the necessity for external procurement, especially from a nuclear-armed neighbor.
Pakistan’s Strategic Focus: Deterrence Against India
Pakistan’s strategic doctrine is another crucial aspect that invalidates these claims. Islamabad’s missile program, including the Shaheen series, has been explicitly developed with a singular focus: deterring aggression from India. The geographical and historical context of South Asia necessitates that Pakistan maintains a credible deterrent against its eastern neighbor. The Shaheen 3 missile, with its range of approximately 2,750 kilometers, is tailored to reach any target within India, a clear indication of its intended purpose of development and employment.
Unlike India, which has demonstrated aspirations to project power beyond its immediate neighborhood, Pakistan’s military strategy is regionally focused. This strategy is rooted in a policy of minimum credible deterrence, which prioritizes maintaining a balance of power in South Asia rather than projecting influence or military capabilities beyond its borders. In maintaining the nuclear deterence Pakistan remains actively consious of the rights and responsibilities arising from the possession of nuclear weapons. Nuclear restraint, stabilisation and Credible Minimum Detternce are the basic elements of its nuclear doctrine.
Rationality and Responsibility in Pakistan’s Nuclear Policy
Pakistan has consistently positioned itself as a rational and responsible nuclear state. Its nuclear doctrine is grounded in restraint and responsibility, with a clear emphasis on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and related technologies. Any suggestion that Pakistan would compromise this stance by exporting nuclear-capable delivery systems to another country is inconsistent with its historical policies and diplomatic efforts.
Furthermore, the international community, including organizations like the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), has recognized Pakistan’s commitment to nuclear safety and security. Islamabad’s robust export control mechanisms and adherence to international non-proliferation norms underscore its dedication to preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
The propagation of such frivolous stories alleging missile transfers from Pakistan to Iran raises questions about the motivations behind such narratives. In a world where geopolitical tensions are often exacerbated by misinformation, it is crucial to critically evaluate the sources and intentions behind such claims.
Disinformation, whether deliberate or accidental by mainstream Indian media, can have far-reaching consequences. In the context of South Asia and the Middle East, regions already fraught with tension and historical rivalries, false narratives can further destabilize delicate balances. It is imperative for media outlets to exercise caution and responsibility, ensuring that their reporting is grounded in verified facts rather than speculation or conjecture.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Non-Proliferation
Pakistan’s policy of non-proliferation is not merely rhetorical. The country has made significant strides in aligning its export control measures with international standards, demonstrating its commitment to preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and their delivery systems.
Islamabad’s strategic calculus recognizes the dangers of nuclear proliferation, not just regionally but globally. By maintaining strict controls over its nuclear and missile technologies, Pakistan aims to contribute to global security and stability. The suggestion that it would jeopardize this stance by engaging in illicit missile transfers is inconsistent with its long-standing policy commitments.
Beyond the immediate implications for Pakistan and Iran, the propagation of such narratives has broader regional and global repercussions. In an era where diplomatic engagement and dialogue are crucial to resolving complex geopolitical challenges, disinformation can hinder constructive discourse and exacerbate existing tensions.
For Pakistan, the focus remains on ensuring regional stability through dialogue and engagement. Islamabad’s efforts to engage in confidence-building measures and its calls for strategic restraint in South Asia reflect a desire to foster a more stable and peaceful regional environment.
The allegations of Pakistan supplying Shaheen 2 missiles to Iran are unfounded and disregard the realities of both countries’ strategic imperatives and capabilities. Iran’s robust missile program and Pakistan’s regionally focused deterrent strategy negate the plausibility of such transfers. Moreover, Pakistan’s commitment to non-proliferation and its responsible nuclear posture further undermine these baseless claims. This disinfo campaign is a failed attempt by the Indian media to draw away attention of Indian and international media from the faulty policies of BJP led Modi’s regime.
In an increasingly interconnected world, the spread of disinformation poses significant challenges. It is incumbent upon media outlets, policymakers, and the international community to critically evaluate such narratives, ensuring that facts prevail over fiction in the pursuit of global peace and security.