India Says PAK Nuclear Arsenal Should be Under UN Surveillance

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to place Pakistan's nuclear arsenal under international supervision. This call comes in the wake of heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors following recent military confrontations.

• India's Appeal: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh questions the safety of Pakistan's nuclear weapons and calls for IAEA oversight.

• Security Concerns: India expresses apprehension over Pakistan's nuclear security, citing potential risks.

• Recent Conflict: The appeal follows a recent military standoff between India and Pakistan, marking the most severe engagement in decades. 

• Pakistan's Response: Islamabad condemns India's remarks, asserting its nuclear program's security and accusing India of deflecting from its own issues.

• International Implications: The situation raises global concerns about nuclear security and regional stability.

Addressing troops in Srinagar, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated:

"I want to put this question to the world: Is Pakistan's nuclear arsenal safe? Pakistan's nuclear weapons should be brought under the scrutiny of the IAEA."

Singh emphasized that Pakistan's history of supporting terrorist activities raises concerns about the security of its nuclear assets.

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry swiftly condemned Singh's remarks, labeling them as "irresponsible and misleading." The ministry asserted that Pakistan's nuclear program is secure and under robust command and control mechanisms. It accused India of attempting to divert attention from its own internal issues by making unfounded allegations.

The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. While there has been no official statement from the IAEA regarding India's request, global powers are closely monitoring the situation. The potential for nuclear conflict in South Asia remains a significant concern for international security.

• Estimated Warheads: Approximately 170 nuclear warheads as of 2024.

• Development History: Pakistan's nuclear program began in the 1970s, achieving nuclear capability in 1998.

• Command Structure: The Strategic Plans Division oversees Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, ensuring security and control.

India's appeal to the IAEA to monitor Pakistan's nuclear weapons highlights the fragility of peace in the region. As both nations navigate post-conflict dynamics, the international community's role in facilitating dialogue and ensuring nuclear security becomes increasingly vital.