New Delhi – Former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) chief Vikram Sood has made strong remarks about Pakistan’s military and political conduct, calling the country a “banana republic with a nuclear bomb” and referring to its current Army Chief General Asim Munir as an “Islamic jihadi general.”
In an interview, Sood commented on what he sees as a deep-rooted ideological orientation within the Pakistani military. “He (Asim Munir) is an Islamic jihadi general. Can you imagine an Indian General saying something like ‘Hindus and Muslims cannot live together’? Never. Indian officers are professionals, while many in their ranks are driven by ideology—an ideology that believes in domination,” he said.
Sood criticized Pakistan’s interpretation of military outcomes, stating, “For them, not conceding land—even at the cost of lives—is considered a victory.”
Commenting on the controversy during the Asia Cup 2025 involving Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi allegedly taking the trophy with him, Sood dismissed it as symbolic of erratic governance. “It’s hilarious. That kind of behavior doesn’t happen anywhere else. It’s a banana republic reaction. That’s what we’re dealing with—a banana republic with nuclear weapons,” he remarked.
On the situation in Balochistan, Sood highlighted the evolving nature of the ongoing movement. “Earlier, the protests didn’t have much participation from the middle or lower-middle classes.
Now that they’re involved—especially educated youth—the movement is far more serious than it has been in the past two decades.”
He also commented on Pakistan’s reported attempts to attract foreign investment by highlighting its rare earth mineral resources. “They are likely trying to entice American interest with promises of rare earths. But any financial gains might just end up in offshore accounts—in places like the Cayman Islands, Geneva, Zurich, or London. That’s how the system tends to function there,” he alleged.
Separately, international geopolitical researcher Josh Bowes raised concerns at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), drawing attention to alleged human rights abuses in Pakistan, particularly in the restive Balochistan region. His remarks were made during the 34th meeting of the UNHRC’s 60th session.
