During a recent Congressional hearing, a senior US intelligence official disclosed Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its nuclear capabilities despite facing economic challenges. Lt Gen Jeffrey Kruse, Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, highlighted Pakistan’s emphasis on enhancing the security of its nuclear arsenal.
Kruse also addressed Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives to garner international support, including efforts at the UN Security Council, to resolve its dispute with India over Kashmir. Additionally, he noted a fragile ceasefire between Islamabad and New Delhi along the Line of Control since February 2021 and an uptick in terrorist violence against Pakistani security forces and civilians. Kruse emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to bolstering its nuclear arsenal and cited the successful test of the Ababeel medium-range ballistic missile in October.