Pakistani Defence Minister Faces Backlash After Citing Social Media as ‘Proof’ of Downing Indian Jets on CNN

Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, came under fire after failing to provide any credible evidence to support his country’s claim of shooting down five Indian Air Force fighter jets during a recent interview with CNN. When pressed for proof regarding Pakistan’s assertion during Operation Sindoor, Asif pointed to social media posts — a response that was swiftly dismissed by CNN anchor Becky Anderson.

How the Interview Played Out

Appearing on CNN, Asif was asked directly about the claim:
“Pakistan claims it shot down five Indian Air Force jets. India says there’s no evidence, no proof. Can you provide more detail? Let’s start with this very specific claim of five fighter jets shot down. Where’s the evidence for that, sir?” asked Anderson.

Instead of presenting official reports, images, or video evidence, Asif replied, “It’s all over social media. On Indian social media, not on our social media. The debris of these jets fell… and it’s all over Indian media.”

Anderson promptly cut him off, remarking, “You’re the defence minister, sir. The reason to talk to you today is not to talk about content all over social media. I’m sorry.”

Widespread Mockery Online

Clips of the exchange quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter), amassing nearly half a million views. Social media users relentlessly mocked the Pakistani minister for citing unverified social media chatter as evidence.

“Pakistani minister using social media as a reference for Indian jets — such a buffoon move. It’s obvious propaganda to save face,” wrote one user.

Another quipped, “A day without international embarrassment is a day wasted for Pakistan.”

Comments ranged from disbelief to ridicule:
“How can a minister say he saw it online?” questioned one, while another joked, “He basically said, trust me bro.”

One user summed up the sentiment bluntly: “This is the Defence Minister’s statement? Pakistan is not a serious country.”