INTERNATIONAL: Pakistan Slams Rajnath Singh’s Nuclear Oversight Call: Urges IAEA Focus on India
Pakistan’s Strong Rebuke
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry sharply criticized India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh (Rajnath Singh) for suggesting International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) oversight of Islamabad’s nuclear arsenal, calling it “sheer ignorance” of the agency’s mandate. The statement, issued on May 15, 2025, condemned Singh’s remarks as irresponsible and reflective of India’s insecurity.
Context of Singh’s Statement
During a visit to Srinagar’s Badami Bagh Cantonment post-Operation Sindoor (Operation Sindoor), Singh questioned the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons, citing its “irresponsible” threats against India. He urged the IAEA to supervise Pakistan’s nuclear program to ensure global security.
Pakistan’s Counter-Accusation
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry claimed its conventional military capabilities are sufficient to deter India, dismissing the need for “nuclear blackmail.” It accused India of nuclear material theft and illicit trafficking, urging the IAEA to investigate India’s nuclear safety record instead.
IAEA’s Stance
The IAEA, the global nuclear watchdog, has not commented on Singh’s proposal for oversight of Pakistan’s nuclear facilities. It previously confirmed to ANI that no radiation leaks have occurred from Pakistan’s nuclear sites, as reported on May 15, 2025.
Operation Sindoor Backdrop
Singh’s remarks followed India’s successful Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Narendra Modi) and the Indian armed forces for their precision and the people of Jammu and Kashmir (Jammu and Kashmir) for rejecting terrorism.
Pakistan’s Defense Claims
Pakistan’s statement emphasized its “effective defense and deterrence” against Indian aggression, asserting that its nuclear arsenal is secure and does not require external supervision. It accused India of projecting its own nuclear insecurities onto Pakistan.
India’s Security Concerns
Singh’s call for IAEA oversight stems from Pakistan’s alleged threats during recent tensions, including Operation Sindoor. He highlighted Pakistan’s history of supporting terrorism, raising doubts about the responsible management of its nuclear weapons.
IAEA’s Role
The IAEA promotes the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology, contributing to global security and UN Sustainable Development Goals. It has not indicated any plans to expand oversight over Pakistan’s nuclear program in response to Singh’s suggestion.
Regional Tensions
The exchange underscores heightened India-Pakistan tensions post-Operation Sindoor, with nuclear rhetoric adding to diplomatic friction. Both nations’ nuclear capabilities remain a global concern due to their history of conflict.
Public and Global Reaction
Posts on X reflected divided sentiments, with some supporting Singh’s call for oversight and others echoing Pakistan’s deflection to India’s nuclear record. The international community awaits IAEA’s response to the escalating nuclear debate.