Iranian General Claims Pakistan Would Respond with Nuclear Force Against Israel

In a significant and provocative statement, Iranian General Mohsen Rezaei declared that Pakistan would launch a nuclear attack on Israel should Iran face a nuclear strike. This assertion, made during an interview on Iranian state television, marks a bold claim regarding the alliances and military strategies in the Middle East amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. Rezaei, a senior military commander and member of Iran's National Security Council, emphasized that Pakistan has assured Iran of its support in the event of a nuclear confrontation with Israel. He stated, "Pakistan has assured us that if Israel uses a nuclear bomb on Iran, they will attack Israel with a nuclear bomb," a claim that remains officially unverified by Pakistani authorities.

The context of this statement arises from a backdrop of intensifying military exchanges between Iran and Israel, particularly following a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military installations on June 14, 2025. These strikes reportedly resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with Israeli sources reporting at least 13 fatalities and over 370 injuries from Iranian missile attacks, while Iran's health ministry cited at least 128 deaths and nearly 900 injuries resulting from the Israeli operations. The ongoing conflict has raised alarms about the potential for a broader regional confrontation involving nuclear capabilities.

Rezaei's comments also highlight a call for unity among Muslim nations against perceived threats from Israel. During a recent address, Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif echoed these sentiments, urging Muslim countries to sever diplomatic ties with Israel and to convene the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to formulate a collective response to Israel’s military actions. Asif asserted, "If Muslim nations don’t unite now, each will face the same fate," emphasizing the urgency of solidarity among Islamic states.

This situation underscores the delicate state of geopolitical relations in the region, particularly between Iran, Pakistan, and Israel. The Iranian general's declaration may reflect not only an attempt to bolster morale within Iranian ranks but also to signal to both allies and adversaries that Iran possesses undisclosed military capabilities. The implications of such remarks could be profound, potentially escalating tensions further and drawing in additional regional players.

Experts suggest that Rezaei’s statements could be viewed as a strategic maneuver aimed at reinforcing Iran's position within the Muslim world while simultaneously deterring Israeli aggression. Dr. Ali Reza, an expert in Middle Eastern politics at the University of Tehran, noted, "Statements like these serve dual purposes: they rally domestic support and project strength internationally, especially to regional allies who may feel vulnerable."

However, analysts caution against taking such proclamations at face value. Military expert Dr. Sarah Johnson from the Institute for Strategic Studies explained, "While these statements are alarming, the reality of nuclear engagement is fraught with peril for all involved. It is unlikely that any state would willingly enter into a nuclear exchange, given the catastrophic consequences."

Rezaei’s assertions come at a time of heightened uncertainty. Following a brief but tense missile exchange between Iran and Pakistan in early 2024, there had been speculation about the nature of their bilateral relations. The recent comments may indicate a strategic shift or reaffirmation of Pakistan’s support for Iran amidst its ongoing conflicts with Israel.

As the situation evolves, analysts and political observers will be closely monitoring the responses from both Iran and Pakistan, as well as international reactions. The potential for miscalculation in this high-stakes environment remains a significant concern for global security. Future diplomatic efforts will likely focus on de-escalation and dialogue to prevent further military confrontations, particularly given the catastrophic implications of nuclear warfare in the region.