ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi yesterday praised Pakistan's intelligence agencies for their critical role during the recent conflict with India, claiming they had early access to enemy plans and even obtained video footage of six Indian aircraft being shot down.

The recent confrontation between the two neighbouring countries, triggered by the Pahalgam attack, marked one of the most serious escalations in decades, pushing the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of full-scale war. The conflict resulted in civilian casualties on both sides before diplomatic efforts managed to defuse tensions.

During the exchange, the Pakistan Air Force shot down six Indian aircraft, including a French-made Rafale fighter jet. A senior French intelligence official later confirmed the loss of at least one Rafale-marking the aircraft's first known combat downing.

Speaking at a seminar organised by the Professor Waris Mir Foundation at Aiwan-e-Iqbal, Naqvi said, "Our intelligence agencies' role was so important... we knew whatever they planned, what aircraft they would use." He added, "Within minutes, we received video footage of all six planes which were shot down."

The minister revealed that intelligence agencies received detailed information about India's plans well in advance, including sensitive intelligence and operational documents.

"We used to have every single detail of India's decisions and papers in advance. Later, when their aircraft were shot down, it was decided that until we had evidence, we would not announce how many planes had been downed. We needed field proof-and believe me, within minutes, the evidence was with us. We have videos of six Indian aircraft that were shot down."

Naqvi attributed part of Pakistan's success during the conflict to divine intervention. "India fired seven missiles at one of our major bases, which contained valuable assets. Everyone was worried, but not a single missile landed inside the base-some fell before reaching, some outside, and some to the side," he recounted.

Published in The Daily National Courier, August, 18 2025

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