India, Pak conflict could lead to nuclear exchange: US General

March 10, 2017 00:37

A significant conventional conflict between Pakistan and India could escalate into a nuclear exchange, a top American General warned.

Testifying before powerful Senate Armed Services Committee, General Joseph Votel, Commander of the US Central Command or CETCOM, said there is continued ongoing tensions between Pakistan and India.

"India remains concerned about the lack of action against India-focused militants based in Pakistan and even responded militarily to terrorist attacks in India-held territory earlier this year," Votel told top American Senators.

"We assess that these types of attacks and the potential reactions, increase the likelihood for miscalculation by both countries," he said.

"Furthermore, India's public policy to 'diplomatically isolate' Pakistan hinders any prospects for improved relations. This is especially troubling as a significant conventional conflict between Pakistan and India could

escalate into a nuclear exchange, given that both are nuclear powers," Votel said.

Additionally, the American General said Pakistan's increased focus on its eastern border detracts from its efforts to secure the western border with Afghanistan from incursion by Taliban and al-Qaida fighters.

Security along the western border will nevertheless remain a priority for Islamabad, as the Pakistani military seeks to expand border control and improve paramilitary security, he said.

Votel told members that seven of the US-designated 20 terrorist organisations have home in Pakistan.

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