Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Friday stated that the recent drone attacks were intended to trace Pakistan’s location rather than cause direct damage, adding that these attacks were not deliberately intercepted by Pakistani forces.

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, the minister emphasised that Pakistan would respond to aggression in a measured and targeted manner, reiterating that the country does not intend to harm Indian civilians but will retaliate against military provocations.

“In a few days, it will be evident how our forces are fully capable of protecting the nation,” Mr Asif said, while lauding the role of the armed forces deployed along the Line of Control (LoC) and Working Boundary.

He asserted that India had violated international norms by targeting civilian areas, which could further escalate tensions in the region. “Our military is responding with courage and restraint,” the defence minister added.

Highlighting diplomatic developments, Mr Asif noted that key international partners including Turkey, China, and Azerbaijan have openly expressed their support for Pakistan amid rising tensions with India.

“Even close allies of the Modi-led Indian government have chosen to distance themselves from its current stance,” he claimed.

“The world is maintaining neutrality in the current standoff between Pakistan and India, but we are maintaining contact with every major country,” he said, adding that Pakistan is not diplomatically isolated.

Earlier, during his appearance on SAMAA TV’s current affairs programme Red Line with Talat, Mr Asif rejected Indian claims that a Pakistani aircraft had been downed, terming such statements as “an attempt to cover up embarrassment” following the loss of Indian aircraft.

“Initially, India did not even acknowledge the destruction of its planes. Now, even the ejection seat manufacturer has confirmed that four of its seats were used — a clear admission of Indian aircraft losses,” he said.

He criticised the Indian media and officials for shifting narratives and attempting to mislead both domestic and international audiences.

The latest escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours has raised concerns of a broader conflict, prompting international calls for restraint and dialogue. However, officials in Islamabad have reiterated that while Pakistan seeks peace, it will not compromise on national security.

Mr Asif's statements come amid a tense atmosphere along the LoC, where both sides have reported intermittent exchange of fire. Pakistan has called on the international community to take note of India's "reckless behaviour" and role in destabilising regional peace.