Pakistan has rejected the US intelligence chief's assertion that the country's missile capabilities pose a potential threat, emphasizing that its capabilities are defensive in nature.
The statement by the Pakistani foreign ministry came after US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard told lawmakers that Pakistan's long-range ballistic missile development could include missiles capable of targeting the US.
Pakistan said its missile programme is firmly rooted in the doctrine of credible minimum deterrence 'vis-à-vis India.'
India's Ministry of External Affairs responded, saying the country has a history of 'clandestine nuclear nonproliferation' and poses a threat to the world due to its clandestine nuclear operations.
Gabbard said the US Intelligence Community assesses that threats to the Homeland will expand collectively to more than 16,000 missiles by 2035, from the current assessed figure of more than 3,000 missiles.
Pakistan urged a 'more measured and considered approach' that aligns with South Asia's strategic imperatives and advances peace, security, and stability across the region.
