Munir’s remark seen as threat to India’s critical economic infrastructure
New Delhi, Monday, August 12, 2025:
In a provocative statement amid ongoing tensions, Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir issued a warning. He said that in the event of another military conflict with India, the target could be Reliance Industries Limited’s (RIL) Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat. This facility is the world’s largest single-site refinery and a key part of India’s energy and economic infrastructure.
During a formal event in Tampa, Florida, Munir referenced a Quranic verse and pointed to an image of RIL Chairman Mukesh Ambani. His gesture suggested a symbolic warning of a potential economic strike. His remark, interpreted as a thinly veiled threat, has sparked outrage and concern in diplomatic circles and among Indian lawmakers.
According to Pakistani media, Munir said, “Show them what we will do the next time,” while pointing at Reliance’s infrastructure during a conflict briefing. Observers took this as a sign that Pakistan may target economic assets in the future, not just military sites.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reacted strongly, calling Pakistan’s rhetoric “immature, misleading, and dangerous.” In an official statement, the MEA said India strongly opposes the use or threat of force, especially against civilian or economic targets.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office responded by accusing the Indian media and government of “twisting” Munir’s words. However, the Indian side maintained that the statement was a deliberate attempt at nuclear blackmail and intimidation.
ChatGPT said:
Security analysts warn that targeting economic infrastructure—like refineries, power plants, or transport hubs—would be a serious escalation and could breach international law.
India’s RIL Jamnagar refinery processes over 33 million tonnes annually, making up nearly 12% of the country’s total refining capacity. A strike on such a facility would not only damage vital infrastructure but could also disrupt global oil supply chains.
Lawmakers in India’s Parliament condemned the statement, especially since it came from a top official visiting the United States, a key ally of India.Members of Parliament (MPs) asked how a nuclear threat could be issued from the soil of a friendly nation.
Opposition and ruling party members both questioned Munir’s intent, calling his speech economic terrorism. A senior Indian defense expert said, “Threatening civilian and economic targets is not just irresponsible but also a sign of desperation.”
Meanwhile, sources have indicated that Pakistan has reiterated its “first-use” nuclear policy against India. Although Pakistan officially denies abandoning its no-first-use policy, the resurfacing of this stance increases tensions between the two nations.
As diplomatic backchannels stay active, the international community—especially the U.S.—is expected to closely monitor the situation amid rising aggressive statements from both sides.
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