Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told Reuters that following last week’s deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir, a military strike by India on Pakistan is highly likely and imminent.

Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan is on full alert and would only use nuclear weapons if there is a direct threat to the country’s existence.

Commenting on the possibility of an Indian attack, he said: “There is a likelihood that India will attempt an incursion in Pakistan and will engage Pakistan militarily. That is a possibility, a very clear and stark possibility. It cannot be ruled out." He added, "We are absolutely ready, high alert. If there is a violation of our airspace or there is violation on the ground, if we are engaged in any way on the seas, we are prepared to respond and inshallah we will give a befitting response to India."

Speaking further about the use of nuclear weapons, Asif stated: “I would still believe and very firmly believe that nuke will not be an option, you know, because it will destroy the both countries, you know." 

”This is an option only in the case our existence is in very, very precarious situation and there is a direct threat. There is a direct threat to our existence. But in normal armed conflict, we, I think, both the countries should refrain from using the nuclear option, you know,” he continued.

India has accused Pakistan of supporting militants in Kashmir — a region over which the two countries have fought two wars.

In last week’s attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, 26 tourists were killed. India has blamed Pakistan for being involved in the incident, which led New Delhi to impose tough measures against Islamabad.