Delhi, 1 May (H.S.): Pakistan has appointed Lieutenant General Mohammad Asim Malik, currently chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), as the new National Security Adviser (NSA), per a report from the Express Tribune. Malik will retain his role as head of the ISI, a position he has held since September 2024. He is an experienced military officer, having previously served as Adjutant General at the Pakistan Army’s General Headquarters, a period marked by the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and subsequent protests. Malik has commanded significant military divisions in Balochistan and South Waziristan, regions facing serious security issues.

His appointment occurs against the backdrop of increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly following the Pahalgam terrorist attack that resulted in 26 civilian fatalities. India has since implemented various measures against Pakistan, including closing airspace to Pakistani aircraft and suspending social media accounts of prominent Pakistani figures.

Ceasefire violations along the Line of Control have persisted for seven consecutive days, with recent unprovoked fire reported from Pakistani posts, leading to Indian Army retaliation. PM Modi has pledged to hold accountable those responsible for the Pahalgam attack while Pakistan denies any involvement and threatens a strong response if provoked.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar