Mian Zahid Hussain, Chairman of the National Business Group Pakistan and President of the Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, has warned of increasing regional instability due to the Indian government’s alleged military ambitions and internal turmoil.
In a statement on Monday, he stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his administration are facing intense psychological stress following repeated diplomatic and military setbacks. Hussain criticized the Indian government for what he called the collapse of its “false narrative,” citing growing international condemnation over alleged human rights violations and suppression of minorities, including Kashmiri Muslims and Dalits. He noted that criticism from European nations and global human rights organizations has further dented India’s global image.
Addressing members of the business community, the veteran industrialist claimed that the Modi government, seeking to divert attention from mounting domestic challenges-such as the farmer protests and rising inflation-may be planning another act of aggression against Pakistan. He warned of a possible false flag operation designed to justify such a move.
Quoting a recent UN report, Hussain pointed out that over 3,600 political arrests were made in India in 2024, painting a grim picture of the country’s internal condition. He cautioned that any new military action against Pakistan would provoke a response strong enough to eclipse current global conflicts, including those involving Israel-Iran and Russia-Ukraine.
He emphasized the strength and preparedness of Pakistan’s armed forces, citing the 2023 Global Firepower Report, which ranked Pakistan’s military as the ninth-largest and one of the most organized in the world.
Hussain also referenced a recent speech by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, highlighting Pakistan’s progress in the fight against terrorism. He accused India of attempting to derail these achievements through hostile actions. According to him, past military misadventures by India were decisively thwarted by Pakistan, resulting in strategic and reputational losses for New Delhi.
Calling on global powers to break their silence, he warned that any large-scale conflict in South Asia-home to 25 percent of the world’s population-would have far-reaching humanitarian, economic, and geopolitical consequences. “A confrontation between two nuclear-armed nations would threaten global peace in unimaginable ways,” he said.
Hussain reiterated the need for an immediate resolution to the Kashmir dispute and cessation of violations of the Indus Waters Treaty. He stressed that enduring peace in the region is only possible through a fair and comprehensive political settlement.
Highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to national defense, he noted the recent 18 percent increase in the country’s defense budget, calling it a clear message that Pakistan will not compromise on its security.