Pak Army Chief Repeats Anti-India Remarks During US Visit
Munir calls Kashmir Pakistan’s “jugular vein” in Tampa.
Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, reiterated his provocative anti-India rhetoric during a speech to the Pakistani diaspora in Tampa, Florida, declaring Kashmir as Pakistan’s “jugular vein” and an “incomplete international agenda,” according to a PTI report. Speaking during his second US visit in two months, Munir asserted that Pakistan responded “resolutely and forcefully” to recent conflicts with India, promising a “befitting reply” to any future aggression. India’s Ministry of External Affairs had previously dismissed similar remarks, stating, “How can anything foreign be in a jugular vein? This is a Union Territory of India,” emphasizing Pakistan’s illegal occupation of territories.
Munir’s visit included high-level engagements, such as attending the retirement ceremony of US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Michael E. Kurilla and the change of command to Admiral Brad Cooper. He also met with US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine to discuss mutual interests, extending an invitation for Caine to visit Pakistan. Munir praised US President Donald Trump for his “strategic leadership” in halting India-Pakistan conflicts, a claim New Delhi refuted, insisting military de-escalation occurred through direct bilateral talks without US mediation.
Addressing the diaspora, Munir highlighted a forthcoming trade agreement with the US, expected to attract significant investments, and urged Pakistanis to contribute to their country’s progress. He referenced his June 2025 US visit, where a private luncheon with Trump led to announcements of enhanced US-Pakistan cooperation, including an oil deal. The Pakistani army statement noted the diaspora’s reaffirmed commitment to Pakistan’s development. Munir’s remarks, echoing his earlier statements before the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, underscore persistent tensions with India and Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen ties with the US.
