In a strong message of unity following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, National Conference President and former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday extended unequivocal support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and warned Pakistan against escalating tensions further.

“We have given our full support to the prime minister. After that, we should not be questioned. The prime minister should do whatever work he [deems] necessary,” said Abdullah, addressing reporters amid mounting concerns over cross-border terrorism.

Responding to Pakistan's repeated posturing as a nuclear power, Abdullah reminded Islamabad that India is equally capable, but remains restrained by choice, not compulsion. “We also have nuclear power, and we had it even before them,” he asserted.

He emphasized India’s commitment to peace, stating, “India has never attacked anyone first. It all started from there (Pakistan), and we responded. Even today, we will not use it (nuclear weapons) unless they do. But if they use it, we have it too. May God never let such a situation arise.”

Abdullah also pushed back against the Congress party’s criticism of Prime Minister Modi, including posters that claimed the PM was “missing in action” during a time of crisis. “Where is he missing? I know he is in Delhi,” he said dismissively.

Condemning Pakistan’s history of sponsoring terror attacks on Indian soil, the veteran politician cited several instances of cross-border terrorism. “There was the Mumbai attack, and it was proven they did it. The Pathankot attack, they did it, the Uri attack, they did it. They attacked in Kargil, and I was the chief minister at that time. They said they were not involved, but when we took strong action, they ran to the US President asking for help.”

Abdullah made it clear that India is ready to respond with strength if provoked again. “If they want friendship, then such things cannot continue. It must stop. But if they want hostility, we are ready, and so are they,” he warned.