In a bold statement just days after India and Pakistan concluded their most intense military standoff in nearly three decades, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to assume control of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.
This appeal, coming amid heightened regional concerns, marks the first official Indian demand of its kind. Singh made the remarks during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir, his first trip to the region since the conclusion of Operation Sindoor—a military offensive that saw India targeting terror infrastructure across the Line of Control.
Top military commanders are scheduled to brief the Defence Minister on the prevailing security situation in the region. Singh will also conduct a comprehensive review of the combat readiness of frontline troops at the Indian Army’s XV Corps headquarters in Srinagar, officials said.
The recent military escalation began when India launched precision strikes on terror infrastructure on May 7. This was followed by retaliatory attempts by Pakistan to target Indian military bases on May 8, 9, and 10. In response, India struck back with missile and long-range weapon attacks on eight Pakistani air bases on May 10.
The hostilities de-escalated later that day after military commanders from both sides, including the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs), engaged in talks and reached an understanding to halt further military action.
Singh’s call for international oversight of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal is expected to trigger strong diplomatic reactions. The Defence Minister’s statement reflects India’s deep concern over the security of nuclear weapons in Pakistan, especially in light of the recent flare-up.
