India has sharply criticized Pakistan’s nuclear weapons program, calling it “illegal, opaque, and deeply destabilizing” in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks warning of renewed global nuclear testing.
In a strong statement issued Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) accused Pakistan of “decades-long nuclear smuggling networks and clandestine proliferation”, reaffirming India’s commitment to responsible nuclear stewardship.
“Pakistan’s record on nuclear proliferation is well-documented. The global community must not overlook the threats posed by its illegal weapons program,” the MEA said, referring to multiple instances of illicit transfers and unverified enrichment activity.
Trump’s remarks reignite nuclear debate
Earlier this week, President Trump expressed concern over “rogue nuclear developments” in certain regions, suggesting that some countries had “crossed lines of accountability” and hinting at renewed international inspections.
While Trump did not name Pakistan directly, his comments prompted immediate diplomatic responses in New Delhi and Islamabad.
“India remains a responsible nuclear power, guided by global norms and non-proliferation principles,” the MEA statement added. “Those who have undermined such regimes must be held accountable.”
Pakistan’s history of nuclear opacity
Pakistan’s nuclear network has long been under scrutiny for its alleged links to the A.Q. Khan proliferation scandal, which involved technology transfers to Iran, North Korea, and Libya in the early 2000s. Despite global monitoring efforts, Islamabad has resisted full transparency on its weapons program.
Defense analysts note that the issue could again heighten regional tensions, particularly as South Asia’s security dynamics shift amid rising military modernization and evolving U.S.-India defense cooperation.
“India is asserting its nuclear credibility while exposing Pakistan’s double game,” said Dr. Vivek Joshi, strategic affairs expert at the Institute for Policy Studies. “Trump’s remarks provided the perfect diplomatic cue.”
Regional and global implications
Observers say the exchange may prompt renewed calls for arms control dialogues under U.S. mediation. The development comes as both India and the United States deepen strategic ties through initiatives like INDUS-X and Quad defense cooperation, while Pakistan’s nuclear doctrine remains shrouded in ambiguity.
