US Flags Pakistan’s Missile Development and Regional Security Risks
Washington DC, March 19: The United States intelligence community has identified Pakistan as a significant nuclear threat to the US, alongside major global powers like Russia and China.
The assessment comes from the 2026 Annual Threat Assessment (ATA) report presented by Tulsi Gabbard.
Concerns Over Advanced Missile Systems
The report highlights Pakistan’s growing military capabilities. It states that Pakistan is developing advanced missile delivery systems.
US intelligence believes that Pakistan could develop long-range ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). These systems may have the capability to strike targets in the United States.
Global Missile Threat Expected to Rise
The report warns that threats from multiple countries are increasing. It estimates that missile capabilities from nations like Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, and Pakistan could exceed 16,000 missiles by 2035.
Currently, the estimated number stands at over 3,000 missiles.
Terrorism Remains a Key Concern
The report also highlights ongoing concerns about terrorism. It identifies groups like ISIS-K as a major threat in South Asia.
These groups operate in poorly monitored regions and continue to recruit and plan attacks.
Although organizations like ISIS and Al-Qaeda are weaker than before, they still pose risks to US interests globally.
India-Pakistan Tensions Raise Nuclear Risks
The report points out that tensions between India and Pakistan remain a major concern.
It states that while both countries do not seek full-scale war, events such as terrorist attacks can quickly escalate into a crisis.
US intelligence noted that past incidents have shown how rapidly situations can intensify between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Global Conflicts Add to Security Challenges
The report highlights that ongoing conflicts across the world continue to threaten US interests.
Countries and non-state actors are increasingly using military force, proxy groups, and advanced weapons to achieve their goals.
This trend adds to global instability and increases security risks.
The US intelligence report paints a complex global security picture. It underlines rising missile threats, regional conflicts, and persistent terrorism concerns.
Pakistan’s evolving capabilities and regional tensions remain key factors in this assessment.
