Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, has asserted that the military-to-military ceasefire between Pakistan and India remains in effect, but that India’s political leadership is struggling to accept its recent defeat.

Speaking at an event organised by the Pakistan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, Dar stated, “Pakistan-India ceasefire is working fine, but India’s political leadership is unable to digest it.”

The statement follows a four-day military conflict in May, the worst between the nuclear-armed rivals in decades, involving missiles, drones, and artillery fire. In response to Indian aggression, Pakistan launched “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” targeting several Indian military installations. Dar added that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) shot down six Indian fighter jets, including four Rafales, during the conflict. He also alleged that India intentionally targeted Sikh-populated areas with missile strikes.

Dar recounted that the ceasefire was brokered by US intervention: “At 8:15 in the morning, [the] US secretary of state called and said India wants a ceasefire.” He further criticized India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), calling it a “strange move” and asserting that “India cannot stop or divert Pakistan’s water.” He added that India is facing growing international isolation due to its aggressive policies.

Despite the recent conflict, Dar expressed optimism about Pakistan’s economic outlook. He stated that Pakistan has made an economic takeoff and that, “Our goal is now to be included in G20.”

Dar also met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Malaysia.