Indian media has once again levelled baseless accusations against Pakistan, alleging that the country is developing an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with the capability to strike the United States. The claims, widely regarded as false and misleading, are being dismissed by defence experts as part of a continuing disinformation campaign aimed at maligning Pakistan’s image on the global stage.
In reality, Pakistan neither possesses nor is developing any ICBM. Its missile programme remains focused exclusively on regional deterrence, particularly in response to security threats from India. Contrary to the Indian narrative, it is New Delhi that maintains a long-range missile arsenal under its nuclear programme, including the Agni series with a range of up to 5,500 kilometres and the Surya missile, reportedly capable of reaching 10,000 kilometres.
Defence experts argue that India’s persistent attempts to link Pakistan with threats to countries such as the United States and Israel are not only unfounded but also strategically irresponsible. Pakistan has repeatedly clarified, including in its communications with Washington, that its nuclear and missile capabilities are solely India specific. Islamabad has no intentions of targeting any other country, a position that has been acknowledged and respected by the US government.
Observers note that India’s own missile development raises far more serious questions. The Surya missile, for instance, has no logical strategic value against Pakistan or even China, India’s two most frequently cited rivals, leading analysts to question its intended purpose.
Experts believe that India’s ambition to act as a global military power may explain its focus on long range missile systems. However, they warn that pairing such developments with a steady stream of anti Pakistan propaganda reflects poorly on New Delhi’s credibility and its commitment to regional stability.
Indian media outlets have in the past fabricated stories in an attempt to portray Pakistan as a threat beyond South Asia. These include false claims that Pakistan issued warnings of a nuclear strike on Israel in the event of an Iran Israel conflict, an allegation so far-fetched that it was roundly dismissed by the international community.
Defence experts also recall India’s failed attempt to manipulate the regional security narrative by referencing the Pahalgam incident at the SCO defence ministers’ summit. Such moves, they argue, are part of a pattern of exaggeration and falsehood intended to draw global attention away from India’s own internal and external shortcomings.
They further highlight that the world is increasingly recognising India’s media driven campaigns for what they are, efforts to obscure domestic military setbacks and to deflect scrutiny from its rapidly expanding arsenal. Experts stress that Pakistan maintains no hostility towards any country other than its regional adversary India, and that its military preparedness is strictly confined to that context.
