RECENTLY, Israel published a map of `Greater Israel` on its official social media platforms in Arabic, asserting historical territorial claims over lands in several Arab nations. Gulf countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, have strongly condemned the map, which claims `historic territorial rights` over Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria among other regional countries.

The release of the map coincides with statements from hardline Israeli ministers advocatingforthefullre-occupation of Palestinian territories in the West Bank and the rebuilding of Israeli settlements in Gaza. The need for strong countries and military forces to act as a safeguard against such threats has been felt strongly.This situation clearly draws a parallel to Pakistan`s defence needs. Without a strong military, Pakistan would struggle to maintain its sovereignty in the face of both internal and external challenges, particularly with the presence of formidable adversaries. The emergence of the `Greater Israel` map amidst a region of weakened Arab countries and military forces serves as a clear reminder of the importance of military strength, a message that resonates with Pakistan`s own security priorities.

Since testing its nuclear weapons in 1998, Pakistan has relied on its nuclear deterrent as a central component of its defence strategy. However, maintaining and modernising its nuclear arsenal is an expensive endeavour. To ensure that its nuclear capabilities remain credible and effective, Pakistan must invest heavily in its defence infrastructure. While nuclear weapons provide strategic deterrence, conventional military forces are vital to the task ofdefendingthe countryin the event of conventional warfare.

In addition to external threats, Pakistan faces significant internal security challenges. Beyond counterterrorism, Pakistan must also address sectarian violence and separatist movements.

Although critics often highlight the high cost of military spending, they must realise that defence expenditure is nothing but an investment in the country`s long-term security. Military spending is not just a matter of national pride, but a critical unavoidable necessity for Pakistan`s survival, stability and progress.

Abdul Basit Alvi Muzaffarabad