Pakistan Denies Iranian Claim of Nuclear Retaliation Against Israel

Pakistani Officials Refute Statement by Iranian Commander Amid Rising Tensions in the Middle East

Amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, a provocative claim by a senior Iranian military official has sparked international concern. Mohsen Rezaei, a prominent commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and a member of Iran’s National Security Council, stated during an interview on Iranian state television on June 15, 2025, that Pakistan had assured Iran it would launch a nuclear strike on Israel if Israel were to use nuclear weapons against Iran.

“Pakistan has assured us that if Israel uses a nuclear bomb on Iran, they will attack Israel with a nuclear bomb,” Rezaei declared, as reported by multiple sources, including NDTV.

This assertion emerges at a critical juncture, as Iran and Israel are engaged in a series of missile exchanges that have resulted in significant casualties and destruction. According to reports, approximately 248 people have been killed in the conflict, with 230 deaths in Iran and 18 in Israel. The ongoing hostilities have heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.

Pakistani officials have categorically denied Rezaei’s claim, emphasizing that their nuclear arsenal is solely for defensive purposes. Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif addressed the issue on the social media platform X, stating: “Our nuclear capability is for the benefit of our people and defence of our country against the hostile designs of our enemies. We do not pursue hegemonic policies against our neighbours, which are being amply demonstrated by Israel these days”

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar further reinforced Pakistan’s position, describing the viral video of Rezaei’s remarks as “fabricated” and “irresponsible.” Dar clarified that Pakistan’s nuclear policy, established in 1998, remains focused on self-defense, deterrence, parity, peace, and regional security. He also issued a stern warning: “Israel dare not look at Pakistan. Pakistan has enough power to respond to any malafide [action]. Our armed forces are fully alert”

Rezaei’s statement comes amid a volatile period in the Middle East, characterized by direct military confrontations between Iran and Israel.  Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iranian nuclear, military, and oil facilities, prompting Iran to retaliate with drones and ballistic missiles.

These actions have intensified a long-standing rivalry, with both nations issuing warnings and threats of further escalation.

Pakistan has expressed diplomatic solidarity with Iran, citing Muslim unity and calling for a united response from Muslim nations against Israel’s actions. Defence Minister Asif, speaking in Pakistan’s National Assembly on June 14, 2025, urged Muslim countries to cut diplomatic ties with Israel and convene an emergency meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). However, no official Pakistani statement has indicated any intent to engage militarily in the Iran-Israel conflict, let alone with nuclear weapons.

Pakistan’s nuclear program, developed since the 1970s and culminating in successful tests in 1998, is designed to deter aggression and ensure national security, particularly in relation to its regional rival, India. The country is estimated to possess a nuclear arsenal capable of striking targets up to 2,700 kilometers away, via its Shaheen-3 missile. Pakistani officials have consistently maintained that their nuclear weapons are for defensive purposes only.

Asif noted that Pakistan is a signatory to international nuclear disciplines, underscoring its commitment to responsible stewardship of its nuclear arsenal.

Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement with Iran remains strong, with both nations having resolved a brief missile exchange in early 2024, indicating improved bilateral relations. However, Pakistan’s focus remains on maintaining regional stability and avoiding direct involvement in the Iran-Israel conflict.

The claim by Mohsen Rezaei that Pakistan would retaliate with nuclear weapons on Iran’s behalf has been firmly rejected by Pakistani officials, who have reiterated their defensive nuclear policy. As tensions between Iran and Israel persist, the international community remains vigilant, advocating for diplomacy to prevent further escalation. Pakistan’s denial serves to clarify its position and underscores the need for responsible rhetoric in addressing complex geopolitical challenges.