In a forceful statement, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reiterated Pakistan’s longstanding reputation as a "center of global terrorism," citing a series of terrorist attacks that have emerged from the nation. During a media briefing in New Delhi, Misri condemned recent escalations by Pakistan, asserting that any further actions would be met with appropriate responses from India.
Misri pointed specifically to the Pahalgam terror attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, claiming 26 lives. He described this incident as a significant escalation, stating, "The Pahalgam terror attack is the original escalation to which India has responded." The Foreign Secretary also highlighted Pakistan's opposition to the role of The Resistance Front (TRF) in the United Nations Security Council discussions surrounding the attack, noting that the TRF had claimed responsibility for the attack not once, but twice.
"Osama Bin Laden was found in Pakistan," Misri remarked, underlining the country’s status as the epicenter of global terrorism. He further pointed out that Pakistan harbors numerous UN-designated terrorist organizations, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad. Misri referenced statements from Pakistan’s Defence Minister and former Foreign Minister, who admitted their country’s involvement with these terror groups.
On May 7, 2025, Pakistan launched a targeted attack on the Sikh community in Jammu and Kashmir, specifically hitting a gurdwara in Poonch. This assault has led to the tragic loss of 16 innocent lives, including three women and five children, as a result of unprovoked firing from across the Line of Control. Misri stated, "India was compelled to respond to bring Mortar and Artillery fire from Pakistan to a halt," emphasizing the need for a strong military response.
Colonel Sofia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh reported that Pakistan had attempted to engage multiple military targets in northern and western India using drones and missiles. These locations included Avantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, and Amritsar, among others. Fortunately, these attempts were neutralized by India’s integrated counter-unmanned aerial systems and other air defense mechanisms.
Meanwhile, AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has called for an international campaign against the TRF, labeling it the mastermind behind the Pahalgam attack. During an all-party meeting convened by the central government, Owaisi praised the armed forces for their efforts in Operation Sindoor, which targeted known terrorist strongholds. He urged the United Nations Security Council to designate the TRF as a terrorist organization and suggested that the Indian government lobby with the United States to declare the TRF a foreign terrorist organization.
Owaisi also expressed concerns over a speech made by Hafiz Abdul Raoof, the son of Hafiz Saeed, which called for jihad throughout 2025. He emphasized the importance of bringing Kashmiris closer to the Indian government, advocating for compensation for families affected by the recent shelling in Poonch.
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan's connections to various UN-designated terror groups have come under scrutiny. This includes the TRF, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammad. Hafiz Abdur Rauf, a U.S.-designated terrorist, led prayers for those killed in the strikes on the Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters in Muridke, Pakistan. Misri presented a photograph of Rauf leading these prayers, surrounded by military officers, as a stark reminder of Pakistan's ongoing ties to terrorism.
Reports indicate that Masood Azhar, a leader of Jaish-e-Mohammad, lost several family members in the recent Indian Air Force strikes, including his brother Abdul Rauf Azhar, a JeM commander. Misri pointed out that the terrorists killed in these operations were given state funerals, wrapped in the Pakistani flag, which he criticized as a troubling message regarding Pakistan's endorsement of terrorism.
Sheikh Sajjad Gul, the alleged mastermind of the Pahalgam attack and chief of the TRF, is reportedly hiding in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, under the protection of the Pakistani military and intelligence services. Misri noted that Gul has a long history of involvement in terrorist activities, having previously been arrested in India for plotting bombings. After his release, he fled to Pakistan, where he has since been installed as a leader of the TRF.
In light of these developments, Owaisi has called for Pakistan to be placed on the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) due to its continued support for terrorism. He also urged the Indian government to strengthen its stance against terrorism by leveraging international relations, particularly with the U.S. and the UK, to impose sanctions on the TRF.
As tensions escalate along the Line of Control, Owaisi highlighted that India is currently facing hostilities on two fronts: the Line of Actual Control with China and the Line of Control with Pakistan. He pointed out the significant military presence in the Galwan region, with 50,000 troops deployed to address the dual threats.
Owaisi also urged the government to address concerns surrounding the Indian Air Force's operational integrity in light of reports suggesting a Rafale fighter jet may have crashed in Bathinda. He emphasized the importance of maintaining public confidence in the armed forces and the need for clear communication from the government.
As the situation continues to unfold, India is expected to push for the UNSC to designate the TRF as a terrorist organization and to advocate for stringent measures against Pakistan for its role in supporting terrorism. The international community is closely monitoring these developments as both nations navigate a complex and volatile geopolitical landscape.
