**Bangladesh Must Stay Vigilant Amid India-Pakistan Tensions: Chief Adviser Dr. Yunus Urges Preparedness and Peace** 

*Dhaka, April 30, 2025* — In a stirring address at the closing ceremony of the Bangladesh Air Force’s annual drill *“Akash Bijoy-2025”*, Chief Adviser Dr. Md. Yunus underscored the critical need for Bangladesh to remain vigilant amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following a recent armed clash in Kashmir. Speaking at the Bir Uttam AK Khandaker Air Base in Dhaka, Dr. Yunus reiterated his anti-war stance but emphasized that national preparedness is non-negotiable in an unpredictable geopolitical landscape. 

### A Call for Peace Amid Rising Threats 

Dr. Yunus, a vocal advocate for global harmony, began his speech by reaffirming his opposition to war. “Like many others, I am anti-war. I do not wish for any war to occur. Therefore, I strongly object to war preparations. However, we live in a world where the threat of war constantly looms over us,” he stated. His remarks came against the backdrop of heightened hostilities between India and Pakistan, two nuclear-armed neighbors locked in a decades-long territorial dispute over Kashmir. 

The latest flare-up occurred earlier this month when an armed attack in the disputed Kashmir region killed dozens, prompting retaliatory measures from both sides. With global powers urging restraint, Dr. Yunus warned that the situation remains volatile. “The situation between India and Pakistan is so tense that war could break out at any moment. In such a scenario, not being prepared would be suicidal,” he cautioned. 

### Balancing Diplomacy and Defense 

While advocating for peaceful dialogue, Dr. Yunus stressed that Bangladesh cannot afford complacency. “We must always extend our hands toward peace, but we must also remain prepared,” he asserted. His dual emphasis on diplomacy and defense readiness reflects Bangladesh’s strategic position in South Asia, a region historically prone to instability. 

The Chief Adviser criticized the previous government’s handling of national security, alleging mismanagement had weakened Bangladesh’s defenses. “Due to the previous government’s mismanagement, even the resources we had were squandered. Under such circumstances, we need to devise a comprehensive strategy,” he said. Without naming specific administrations, his comments hinted at long-standing concerns over corruption and inefficiency in defense procurement and planning. 

### Modernizing the Air Force: A Pillar of National Security 

The *Akash Bijoy-2025* exercise, a cornerstone of the Bangladesh Air Force’s (BAF) operational readiness, showcased advanced aerial maneuvers, combat simulations, and next-generation technologies. Observing the drills, Dr. Yunus praised the Air Force’s professionalism and reiterated the government’s commitment to building a modern, agile military. 

“The government remains committed to building a modern Air Force that is always prepared to face any challenges to the sovereignty and independence of the country,” he declared. His remarks align with Bangladesh’s recent investments in defense modernization, including the acquisition of fighter jets, radar systems, and drone technology. 

Addressing air personnel directly, Dr. Yunus highlighted patriotism and technical excellence as the bedrock of national security. “With our united efforts, we will build a secure, developed, and strong Bangladesh, *InshaAllah*,” he said, urging personnel to “continue developing contemporary skills and technical capabilities.” 

### Regional Implications and Bangladesh’s Strategic Calculus 

Bangladesh’s call for preparedness comes at a delicate time. As India and Pakistan trade accusations over the Kashmir attack, Dhaka faces diplomatic and security challenges. While Bangladesh maintains strong ties with India, its historical and cultural links with Pakistan complicate its neutral stance. Analysts suggest that any full-scale conflict between the two rivals could destabilize the region, impacting trade, migration, and regional security frameworks. 

Dr. Yunus’s speech signals Bangladesh’s intent to avoid entanglement in external conflicts while safeguarding its own interests. The emphasis on self-reliance echoes broader trends in Global South nations seeking to reduce dependency on foreign powers amid shifting alliances and economic uncertainties. 

### The Path Forward: Unity and Resilience 

In his closing remarks, Dr. Yunus struck an optimistic tone, framing resilience as a collective responsibility. “Patriotism and professionalism are key pillars for building a safe future for Bangladesh,” he said, calling for unity across government, military, and civil society. 

The *Akash Bijoy-2025* exercise, involving hundreds of personnel, fighter squadrons, and surveillance units, exemplified this ethos. The drills focused on multi-domain operations, cyber warfare readiness, and joint force coordination—elements critical to 21st-century combat.