Why Pakistan’s Nuclear Card Is Failing

Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir’s recent remarks from US soil — threatening nuclear retaliation and strikes on Indian economic targets — have triggered a sharp response from New Delhi. India’s Ministry of External Affairs called it “nuclear sabre-rattling” and “blackmail,” branding Pakistan an irresponsible nuclear state.

US and international experts have weighed in, with some dismissing the threat as a bluff and others warning of the dangers of such rhetoric.

In this week’s Defence Mantra, Nitin Gokhale examines the significance of Munir making these comments in America, the credibility of Pakistan’s nuclear threats, and the geopolitical messaging behind them.

What are India’s strategic options and what is the role Washington may play in tempering or amplifying such rhetoric? Is this just posturing — or a dangerous escalation in South Asia’s nuclear standoff? Tune in to understand the stakes.