Pak Army Chief Asim Munir Reignites ‘Kashmir Jugular Vein’ Rhetoric in US, Praises Trump for Averting India-Pak War

Tampa: Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has once again stirred controversy by declaring Kashmir as the “jugular vein” of Pakistan during an address to the Pakistani diaspora in Tampa, Florida, as part of his ongoing US visit.

In a speech heavy with anti-India rhetoric, Munir claimed that Pakistan “will not forget the issue of Kashmir,” insisting it remains an “incomplete international agenda.” Quoting Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, he reiterated, “Kashmir is the jugular vein of Pakistan.”

India swiftly dismissed the statement, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) retorting, “How can anything foreign be in a jugular vein? This is a union territory of India. Its only relationship with Pakistan is the vacation of illegally occupied territories by that country.”

Defiant Words, Diplomatic Spin

Munir boasted that Pakistan had responded “resolutely and forcefully” during recent tensions with India, vowing any “Indian aggression will be met with a befitting reply.” He also portrayed his second US trip in less than two months as a step towards strengthening Pakistan-US ties, calling for a “constructive, sustainable and positive” partnership.

Striking a surprising note, Munir publicly thanked US President Donald Trump, crediting his “strategic leadership” for stopping an India-Pakistan war and preventing other global conflicts. India, however, maintains that ceasefire decisions were reached through direct talks between the two militaries, with no American mediation involved.

Trump Connection & Big-Ticket Promises

Munir’s trip follows his rare five-day visit to the US in June, where he attended a private luncheon with Trump — an honor generally reserved for heads of state. That meeting led to Trump announcing “enhanced cooperation” between Washington and Islamabad, including an oil deal.

The army chief now claims a trade agreement with the US is in the works, which could bring “huge investments” to Pakistan.

High-Level Engagements in Tampa

While in Tampa, Munir attended the Change of Command Ceremony at US Central Command (CENTCOM), witnessing Admiral Brad Cooper assume command from General Michael E. Kurilla. He also met Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, and invited him to visit Pakistan.