Jaishankar Exposes Pakistan’s Role in Sheltering Notorious Terrorists
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has accused Pakistan of providing a safe haven for some of the world’s most infamous terrorists, who operate openly in its major cities. Jaishankar emphasized that the most notorious individuals on the United Nations sanctions list are based in Pakistan, with their locations, activities, and networks well-documented. He dismissed any claims of Pakistan’s ignorance, asserting that the state and its military are deeply complicit in supporting terrorism.
Jaishankar’s remarks come in the wake of heightened tensions following the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives. India responded with Operation Sindoor, launching targeted strikes on May 7 against nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, aimed at groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The operation, which resulted in over 100 terrorist deaths, led to a brief but intense exchange of drone, missile, and long-range weapon fire before a bilateral ceasefire was agreed upon on May 10.
Addressing Pakistan’s role, Jaishankar drew a stark comparison, questioning how a government could claim ignorance of large-scale terrorist training camps in urban centers, likening it to hypothetical military bases in a city like Amsterdam. He reiterated India’s firm stance against terrorism, warning that continued attacks from Pakistan would lead to consequences. “Pakistan must understand that very well,” he stated, reinforcing India’s demand for an end to cross-border terrorism. Jaishankar also clarified that India’s only discussions with Pakistan would focus on ending terrorism and resolving the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The minister’s comments align with his earlier statements labeling Pakistan as the “epicenter of terrorism. “I am not suggesting that, I am stating that,” he said, pointing to Pakistan’s backing of terrorist groups. His remarks were part of a broader diplomatic effort during his visit to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany, aimed at briefing strategic partners on India’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism.