A high-ranking Iranian official’s claim that Pakistan would launch a nuclear attack on Israel in retaliation for any Israeli nuclear strike on Iran has triggered strong global reactions and an immediate denial from Islamabad, deepening tensions in the already volatile Middle East.
Iran’s General Rezaei Claims Nuclear Pact with Pakistan
General Mohsen Rezaei, a senior commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and a member of Iran’s National Security Council, made the controversial remarks during a broadcast on Iranian state television. According to Rezaei, “In the event of an Israeli nuclear attack, Pakistan has assured us it would retaliate against Israel with nuclear weapons.” His statement followed Israel’s Operation Rising Lion—a major airstrike on Iranian military and nuclear sites that reportedly killed over 130 individuals, including top commanders.
Pakistan Denies Nuclear Allegation
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif swiftly denied any such arrangement with Iran. Speaking before the Pakistan National Assembly, Asif reaffirmed that Pakistan’s nuclear doctrine is strictly defensive and in line with international norms. “No such commitment has been made,” he said, emphasizing Pakistan’s dedication to regional peace and stability.
Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict
Tensions between Iran and Israel have soared in recent days. On June 13, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and resulting in the deaths of six nuclear scientists. Iran responded with a missile assault, Operation True Promise 3, which has reportedly caused 248 fatalities — 230 in Iran and 18 in Israel. The cycle of retaliation has raised fears of a broader regional war.
Nuclear Capabilities and Strategic Calculations
Rezaei’s remarks stirred fears of nuclear escalation, particularly given Pakistan’s Shaheen-III missile, which has a range of 2,750 km—sufficient to reach Israel. However, analysts question whether Pakistan would deviate from its India-centric nuclear doctrine. Defense analyst Ayesha Siddiqa stated, “Pakistan’s strategic focus remains on India, not Israel.”
Calls for Unity and Peace
Despite rejecting nuclear retaliation claims, Islamabad has expressed support for Iran in its standoff with Israel. Khawaja Asif urged Muslim nations to unite against Israeli aggression, though no official endorsement of military or nuclear support was issued.
Meanwhile, international powers including the United States, China, and Russia have called for urgent de-escalation. Former U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran of serious consequences if U.S. interests are targeted but also signaled willingness to mediate peace talks.
Middle East on Edge
The sharp exchange of threats and denials underscores the precarious situation in the region. The mention of nuclear warfare has alarmed global observers, raising concerns about the potential for conflict to spiral out of control.
With diplomacy hanging in the balance, the international community is watching closely as tensions between Iran, Israel, and now indirectly Pakistan continue to escalate.