Former Pentagon official says Pakistan "ran like a dog with its tail between its legs"(Representational image)
India’s recent military operation following the Pahalgam terror attack has put Pakistan on the back foot. Former Pentagon official Michael Rubin strongly criticized Pakistan’s response, calling it a complete failure both strategically and diplomatically
India’s Precision Strikes Leave Pakistan Stunned
Operation Sindoor, launched by India on May 7, was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The assault had killed 26 people and injured several others in Jammu and Kashmir. India retaliated swiftly, targeting key terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
According to Rubin, India’s precision strikes destroyed terror camps and training centers operated by groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). These strikes crippled Pakistan’s air capabilities and forced it to seek a ceasefire.
Pakistan Sought Ceasefire in Panic
Rubin described Pakistan’s reaction as a retreat. He claimed Islamabad “ran like a scared dog with its tail between its legs” after Indian strikes disabled multiple airfields. The push for a ceasefire, Rubin argued, was driven by Pakistan’s inability to counter India’s military response effectively.
“Pakistan lost very badly,” said Rubin, adding that the world can now clearly see the connection between Pakistan’s military and terrorist networks.
Global Attention on Pakistan’s Terror Links
Rubin emphasized India’s diplomatic win. The global conversation, he said, has shifted to Pakistan’s role in supporting terrorism. He highlighted how uniformed Pakistani officers attending funerals of slain terrorists reveals the close ties between the military and terror outfits.
This, Rubin said, exposes Pakistan on the global stage. “There’s no difference between ISI, the army, and terror groups anymore,” he stated, urging the international community to demand accountability from Islamabad.
India Reshapes the Strategic Narrative
India’s response has not only dealt a military blow but also changed the strategic narrative. Rubin noted that Pakistan has historically claimed victory in wars it started, but this time the outcome is undeniable.
“This four-day war is different. Even Pakistan can’t convince itself it won,” said Rubin. He praised India's swift escalation and effective military strategy that neutralized Pakistan’s response.
Pakistani Military Faces Harsh Internal Questions
Rubin also questioned the leadership of Pakistan’s Army Chief, Gen. Asim Munir. He called the Pakistani military a “cancer” within the nation, both incompetent and damaging to society.
He asked whether Gen. Munir could retain his position given the military’s failure. “Pakistan needs a complete clean-up. But it’s unclear if that’s even possible now,” Rubin warned.
Operation Sindoor Ends with India in Control
The cross-border conflict came to a halt on May 10, with both nations agreeing to a ceasefire across land, sea, and air. However, by then, India had already achieved its objectives. Its strikes had decimated critical radar systems, communication hubs, and enemy airbases.
Rubin’s remarks reflect a broader shift in how the international community views India-Pakistan conflicts. This time, India not only took the lead but also shaped the narrative—militarily and diplomatically.
As the dust settles, Pakistan faces tough questions about its leadership, its terror affiliations, and its repeated failures in conflicts it initiates.
