Retired Pakistani Air Marshal Warns: "Pakistan Too Weak Against India"

In a candid interview, retired Pakistan Air Force Air Marshal Masood Akhtar admitted that Pakistan is in a "difficult situation" amid rising tensions with India. Highlighting the stark military imbalance, he noted India’s 1.6 million-strong force versus Pakistan’s 600,000, warning that passion alone ("jazba") can't bridge the gap.

Akhtar pointed to India’s successful airstrikes and Pakistan’s weak air defenses as signs of growing vulnerability. He stressed that de-escalation is unlikely without U.S. or major power intervention, and criticized the failed mediation efforts by Arab nations and Iran. His remarks reflect deepening concerns within Pakistan over national security.