ISLAMABAD: The potential use of nuclear weapons in a conflict involving Iran would lead to catastrophic outcomes for the Middle East and beyond, Sardar Masood Khan, a former ambassador and president, has warned. He described such a move as an act of “mutual suicide” with severe economic and public health repercussions for many countries.
According to President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khan, in a recent television interview, expressed skepticism about the likelihood of nuclear weapons being used by the United States against Iran, despite ongoing tensions. He discussed three potential scenarios: a conventional strike coordinated with Israel, continued diplomatic talks involving the U.S., Iran, and Qatar, or an extreme nuclear option. Khan emphasized prioritizing diplomacy and negotiations to avoid further military escalation.
Khan highlighted the far-reaching consequences of a nuclear attack, cautioning that Europe, the Gulf states, and several Asian nations would face significant challenges. He criticized rhetoric threatening the destruction of Iranian civilization as disregarding international legal norms, underscoring the severe implications of nuclear weapon use.
He pointed to political pressures, noting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s domestic challenges and his push for U.S. military action against Iran. Khan also mentioned President Donald Trump’s declining approval ratings and economic concerns, suggesting that criticism over Iran policy could escalate political tensions ahead of U.S. midterm elections.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s defense strategy, Khan reiterated the country’s nuclear policy as one of deterrence, not aggression. He warned of the devastating human cost of a potential nuclear exchange between India and Pakistan and urged for strategic restraint and responsible leadership to prevent such scenarios.
Khan concluded by urging against the use of nuclear arms as tools of political or military leverage, advocating for sustained diplomacy to avert a crisis with long-term global impacts.