The strikes on Pakistan on the night of May 7 may escalate into a full-scale war, the consequences of which will go far beyond the region, Sheraz Mehmood, a research fellow at the Institute of Regional Studies at the Western Caspian University, told Report.
"India has initiated a very dangerous game in the region by attacking with missiles last midnight when Pakistan was sleeping. None of the countries of the region can afford this war, as it will have consequences far beyond the borders. The powers in the region should think about it seriously before it's out of their control. Pakistan is the only country in the region that has fought against the war on terror and all kinds of insurgencies for decades, and it's quite capable of protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity," he noted.
He stressed that Pakistan is ready to respond decisively in case of a threat to its national interests.
"Last time, when Pakistan was invaded, it shot down India's plane in Balakot and captured the pilot and then later on handed him over to India, giving a message to the world that it believes in peace but when it comes to its sovereignty, it will defend its territory by all means. This time, within a few hours, Pakistan shot down five of India's fighter jets and one drone as well as they were all ready to attack Pakistan. Besides, India has tried to damage Neelum–Jhelum Hydropower Plant of Pakistan. Damaging the hydropower plant of Pakistan will be considered as damaging the national asset of the country. Pakistan will retaliate more aggressively," he added.