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Pahalgam Attack: India Says Lashkar Militants From Pakistan Behind Kashmir Killings

June 24, 2025, 3:45 pm

Pahalgam attack suspects have now all been confirmed as Pakistani nationals, Indian investigators revealed, as the probe into April’s deadly assault in Kashmir continues. India’s National Investigative Agency (NIA) announced that all three attackers belonged to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a group banned by the UN.

Earlier, police believed two were Pakistani and one local. After arresting two locals who allegedly sheltered the militants, the NIA said all attackers were from Pakistan.

“The arrested men knowingly harboured the three armed terrorists at a seasonal dhol (hut) before the attack,” NIA stated. Officials did not share when the arrests took place, and the suspects have not made public statements yet. Pakistan has not responded to these new claims, but earlier denied any role in the attack.

The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, first claimed responsibility but later withdrew the claim. The 22 April incident increased tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries by killing 26 tourists in Baisaran, a well-known location in Kashmir. Despite controlling separate areas of the territory, both India and Pakistan claim Kashmir.

India-Pakistan Tensions Rise Ahead of Pahalgam Attack

India revoked the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan shortly after the attack. Pakistan responded by withdrawing from the 1972 Simla Agreement, which sought to settle conflicts amicably. India then launched air and missile attacks on what it described as “terror infrastructure” within Pakistan and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir on May 7.

The US President Donald Trump had declared a truce to halt the escalating hostilities on May 10. Although Pakistan has denied that India hit any terror camps, and replied with its missile strikes and drone missions into Indian territory.

Following the Pahalgam attack, the Indian security forces launched a large search across Kashmir, questioning thousands. Despite the extensive operation, the three attackers remain on the run, which keeps the tensions at an all-time high between the two countries.

Indian Forces Eliminate Three Lashkar-e-Taiba Terrorists in Shopian Encounter

May 13, 2025, 1:05 pm

On Tuesday, Indian security forces successfully eliminated three terrorists of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in a Shopian Encounter, which is in Jammu and Kashmir. The operation took place in the Keller locality, where forces had initiated a cordon and search operation after receiving credible intelligence regarding the presence of the terrorists.

When the team, including police and army personnel, initiated their combing operation in Shopian, the terrorists fired at them, sparking a fierce gun battle. The exchange was brought to a close when all three terrorists were killed, though their identities are yet to be confirmed by officials.

The move is being taken following a major policy shift by the Indian government. A few days back, India made a statement where it declared that any subsequent act of terror in the country would be treated as an act of war.

A senior government minister made clear, “Any future act of terror in India will be considered an act of war against the country and will be responded to accordingly.” This was a formal shift in India’s rules of engagement and delineated a clear line for terror groups based in Pakistan.

Shift in India’s Approach to Terrorism

The Shopian operation highlights the growing intensity in India’s response to terrorism and its new posture toward Pakistan. Just weeks before this encounter, India and Pakistan had agreed to a ceasefire after escalating tensions, particularly after the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22. However, that ceasefire was quickly violated by Pakistan, particularly in Srinagar and other border areas.

Indian military forces struck back on May 7 with precision attacks on terrorist hotbeds in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under ‘Operation Sindoor’. The targeted attacks were followed by Pakistani drone attacks, which targeted areas in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Thankfully, India’s defense systems intercepted the attacks, but the events have raised concerns of a wider conflict between two nuclear-powered neighbors.

India’s decisive actions and stern stance indicate that it will no longer accept cross-border terrorism, even under threats. The continued conflict highlights the vulnerability of the region, and it is obvious that the situation is still precarious, with India upholding its commitment to national security.

The Path Ahead

The Shopian encounter and increasing tensions with Pakistan are a stark reminder of the explosive nature of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. As India keeps asserting its sovereignty and managing the threat of terrorism, the international community needs to keep an eye out for the growing risks between the two countries.

With India’s new engagement rules, any future act of provocation by Pakistan may result in severe consequences, further making the region unpredictable.

‘Operation Sindoor’ Continues: Over 100 Terrorists Killed in Initial Strike, Report

May 8, 2025, 2:29 pm

In a daring action, the Indian army continues its ongoing operation, Operation Sindoor, against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. According to sources than 100 terrorists have been killed in the operation, though the figure is still on the rise. Because of the operation’s continuous nature, officials have admitted that giving an exact number of casualties is currently difficult.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh justified, “Operation Sindoor is in progress at present, and because of the continuous nature, it is impossible to give key information about it at the moment.”

A Calculated Move

The operation is a natural reaction to the growing security threat coming from Pakistan, with a specific focus on terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. As military officials explained, the major targets of Operation Sindoor are several terror dens like the Markaz Taiba in Muridke, LeT’s stronghold, and the Markaz Subhan Allah of JeM in Bahawalpur.

Indian forces have also targeted the Hizbul Mujahideen’s Mehmoona Joya complex in Sialkot and LeT’s camp in Barnala.

The government has stated that over 100 terrorists were killed in #OperationSindoor, and the count is still ongoing. The government also mentioned that Operation Sindoor is still underway, making it difficult to provide an exact number. Additionally, the government said that… pic.twitter.com/q1kme1vT68

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2025

Muridke, on the outskirts of Lahore, is infamous for hosting a vast training and recruitment center for LeT. The Indian army’s decisive attack on this camp is a clear message, India will keep disassembling terror infrastructure in a calibrated and methodical manner. The attacks also hit camps in Muzaffarabad’s Shawai Nalla, another important site associated with these terror organizations.

Strategy of Measured Response

Overall, the government has stressed that India will not raise tensions except as a response to incitement by Pakistan. This aligns with the larger strategic policy of the country of restrained response, where Operation Sindoor has served as a well-calculated counteraction to avert further cross-border terror attacks.

With the tensions running high and the operation in full swing, it is evident that India remains committed to its line against terrorism. But this strategic move comes with the assurance that peace will prevail unless Pakistan’s aggression forces India to take additional steps.

Blast Heard in Lahore Amid Soaring India-Pakistan Tensions | Watch

May 8, 2025, 9:25 am

India-Pakistan tensions surged sharply early Thursday morning after a massive explosion hit Walton Road near Walton Airport in Lahore. The blast occurred a day after India conducted surgical strikes under Operation Sindoor. The strike hit nine key terror infrastructure centers in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) run by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen.

Witnesses and the local media attested to hearing several explosions in Lahore’s Naseerabad and Gopal Nagar neighborhoods. “Multiple explosions were heard near Walton Airport on Walton Road in Lahore’s Naseerabad and Gopal Nagar neighborhoods. Residents came out of their houses in panic and reported seeing clouds of smoke,” Pakistani broadcasters reported locals as saying. Geo TV and a Reuters reporter said the same, adding that panic enveloped the neighborhood as thick clouds of smoke billowed above the cityscape.

سماع دوي انفجار في مدينة #لاهور الباكستانية#إرم_نيوز #باكستان #Pakistan #Lahore pic.twitter.com/Rgq613y7QS

— Erem News – إرم نيوز (@EremNews) May 8, 2025

Utter chaos in Lahore after drone strike at Walton Road which leads to Lahore cantonment. People out on streets in panic. Asim Munir’s Jihadist policies have invited war to Pakistan’s streets. pic.twitter.com/1195BQxlhf

— Divya Kumar Soti (@DivyaSoti) May 8, 2025

Soon after the attack, rescue crews and law enforcement personnel descended on the scene. The authorities cordoned off the entire area, calling on civilians to leave. “People have been stopped from reaching the blast spot,” local police said in a statement. As a precautionary step, Lahore and Karachi airports suspended flights, and Pakistan closed its entire airspace, demonstrating concerns of further escalations.

Operation Sindoor and Aftermath

This explosion occurs only hours following India’s declaration of successful attacks that “100% wiped out” terror targets. Indian forces said that these operations were undertaken in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam massacre in which 26 foreign tourists, one of them a Nepali citizen, were brutally murdered by Pakistan-based terrorists.

Though there is no official word connecting Thursday’s blast with the Indian strikes, the timing has heightened speculation. Experts caution against a potential retaliatory spiral that can undermine regional peace.

The Need for Global Focus

With Pakistan’s airspace sealed off and diplomatic dialogue tense, world observers have called for caution. But both countries are still on red alert. Thursday’s blast in Lahore shows that the aftershocks of Operation Sindoor are only just beginning—and that one ill-chosen move can set off wider implications.

India Targets Jaish, Lashkar Leadership in Precision Strikes: Sources

May 7, 2025, 5:26 am

Indian forces launched precision strikes as part of Operation Sindoor with a focused objective — to target senior leadership of terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, sources told ANI.

According to these sources, the locations hit in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) were carefully chosen to eliminate key figures responsible for orchestrating terrorist activities against India. These strikes were carried out in response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, including one Nepali national.

As per earlier statements from the Ministry of Defence, the operation was designed to be “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” ensuring that no Pakistani military infrastructure was harmed.

The Indian government has reiterated its resolve to hold all those accountable for sponsoring cross-border terrorism. A detailed official briefing on the outcome of the strikes is expected later today.

1993 CIA Report: What Pakistan Fears About India—You Won’t Believe It

May 1, 2025, 1:03 pm

The recent terror attack on Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley tourists, in which 26 were killed and more than 20 injured, is a sorry picture of the underlying hatred between India and Pakistan. A tranquil meadow where families would take naps is now a graveyard for their kin. The terror organization, The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be an extension of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and sponsored by Pakistan’s deep state, is also suspected to have been behind the attack. Pakistan, as expected, has disavowed any involvement.

Though this recent tragedy is heart-wrenching, it is a decades-long reality – one that U.S. intelligence communities predicted over 30 years ago. In 1993, the CIA released a classified report that spoke of the profound fears Pakistan had for India, not merely militarily and economically, but existentially. The analysis, which provided macabre insight, cautioned that a conflict between the two countries could probably break out over tensions related to Kashmir.

1993 CIA Report: An Anticipation of Pakistan’s Kashmir Approach

The 1993 National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) by Bruce Riedel, a veteran CIA analyst, arrived at a moment of intense unrest in India as well as in Pakistan. The demolition of the Babri Masjid in India and domestic instability within Pakistan provided the backdrop for elevated tensions. The report predicted a narrow 20% probability of an all-out war but cautioned against the possibility of a chain reaction fueled by a significant terrorist attack, misinterpreted military maneuvers, or spontaneous communal unrest.

The report unveiled an important fact: neither India nor Pakistan desired war, but Pakistan, sensing ever more dwarfed by the rise of India’s economic and military might, may turn to moves out of fear. Such fear would probably express itself in proxy wars, most notably in Kashmir, where Pakistan had long been equipping and financing anti-India terror outfits.

Shift in Power: Pakistan’s Growing Fear of India

The CIA report also highlighted an unsettling reality: the balance of power in the subcontinent had already shifted in favor of India. In 1993, India had stable governance under Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao and economic development headed by Dr. Manmohan Singh. Pakistan, meanwhile, was riddled with political turmoil, army rule, and a weak economy. The increasing imbalance stoked the fears of Pakistan, and it responded with extreme measures to neutralize Indian influence.

Underlying the CIA analysis was the contention that Pakistan, cornered by Indian growth, could resort to asymmetric warfare – terrorism and proxies – as a means of bleeding India without conventional fighting. The report hinted that Pakistan could manipulate religious extremism, not because of religious conviction, but as a political tool to divert the public and bait India.

Place of Terrorism in Pakistan’s Strategy

The CIA report specifically cautioned that Pakistan could adopt terrorism as a strategic option, considering its internal turmoil and economic woes. Pakistan, with its failing economy and unstable political environment, could utilize militants to conduct low-cost, high-impact attacks to destabilize India. The Pahalgam attack is a grim reminder of how these forecasts have materialized.

Moreover, the 1993 document stated that a major terrorist attack, which could be pinned on the other side, may lead to tensions escalating. This premonition comes at a time when tragedy has struck again in Pahalgam with the terrorist attack straining the relations between India and Pakistan once again.

US Role and Warning to India

The NIE wasn’t a classified internal document within the CIA but was also transmitted to the White House and State Department since South Asia was a growing concern region. While confidence-building measures such as hotlines and nuclear agreements were regarded as beneficial, the CIA cautioned that during periods of crisis, such accords could be irrelevant. When violence broke out, the leaders would be acting on impulse, not procedure.

The Pahalgam attack has renewed the very apprehensions voiced in the 1993 CIA report, when analysts cautioned that an escalation of violence would lead to a catastrophic war between India and Pakistan. Now, policymakers in New Delhi are looking back at this dire prediction, acknowledging the escalatory patterns that have so long been part of the India-Pakistan relationship.

Pakistan Moves Hafiz Saeed To Lahore’s High-Security Zone As Tensions Escalate Over Pahalgam Attack

May 1, 2025, 8:34 am

Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI, and the government have increased security around Hafiz Saeed, the chief of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jamaat-ud-Dawa, following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, according to sources cited by The Times of India. Saeed, who is wanted by both the United States and India for his role in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, has been sheltered in a densely populated area of Lahore. Sources say that he is being protected by former Special Service Group (SSG) commandos.

Saeed’s residence in Lahore’s Mohalla Johar, where he is currently staying, has been designated as a temporary sub-jail, despite his official imprisonment. Authorities have set up a control room equipped with CCTV cameras, including gesture detection technology, to monitor all movements within a one-kilometre radius. Saeed is often seen with heavy security, including ex-SSG commandos, and regularly visits terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and other locations.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a militant group linked to Saeed’s LeT, has claimed responsibility for the recent Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir. India has accused Pakistan of supporting terrorism and called for action against Saeed, who is a major figure in cross-border terrorism.

Following the attack, Pakistan has claimed that India may retaliate with military action in response to the alleged involvement of Pakistani-backed terrorists. The country’s Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, accused India of preparing to launch military action based on “false and baseless allegations” against Pakistan.

Tarar’s comments were made via a post on X, where he warned of the potential consequences if India proceeded with any military action. The threat of escalation comes as tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors continue to rise.

The Pahalgam attack, considered one of the deadliest in Jammu and Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama strike, has further strained the already fragile relationship between India and Pakistan. Since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status, Pakistan has been accused of using proxy terror groups to destabilize the region.

Pakistan’s increased security for Saeed comes amidst fears that India may respond to the terror attack with military force. The situation remains tense as both countries remain on high alert, and diplomatic efforts are expected to intensify in the coming days.

New Findings Confirm ISI’s Role in Pahalgam Massacre, Linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba

April 29, 2025, 8:21 am

Hashim Musa, a Pakistani terrorist, was behind the deadly Pahalgam attack. He killed 26 people, mostly tourists. Investigators recently revealed that Musa was once a para commando in Pakistan’s special forces. This new information now confirms Pakistan’s Army and ISI’s involvement in the attack. It supports India’s earlier claims of cross-border links to the massacre.

Musa’s Mission in Jammu and Kashmir

Musa is now a key member of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). He was sent to Jammu and Kashmir to target non-locals and security forces. According to sources, this was part of a larger plan to create chaos. Musa’s mission aimed at hurting both civilians and military personnel.

Ties Between Terror Groups and Pakistan’s Military

The attack shows the close relationship between Pakistan’s military and terror groups. A security official said, “It is possible that Pakistan’s special forces, like the Special Service Group (SSG), lent him to LeT.” The SSG is known for elite training in covert operations. They often cooperate with terror groups on specific missions.

ISI’s Direct Involvement in the Attack

Musa’s military background came to light during the interrogation of 15 Kashmiri overground workers (OGWs). These workers helped the attackers with logistics and reconnaissance. A senior officer explained, “This points directly to the ISI’s role in the Pahalgam attack.” The officer also linked the ISI to other terror attacks in Kashmir, like Gagangir and Buta Pathri.

Musa: The Common Link

Musa is the common link in all three attacks. Local terrorists, Junaid Ahmad Bhat and Arbaaz Mir, trained in Pakistan, were also involved in the Gagangir and Buta Pathri attacks. However, security forces killed both in separate encounters in November and December 2024.

In conclusion, these findings strengthen the connection between Pakistan’s military and terror groups. They further validate India’s concerns over cross-border terrorism. The investigation continues.

Blast Destroys Homes of Two LeT Terrorists Believed to Be Linked to Pahalgam Attack | Watch

April 25, 2025, 11:28 am

On Thursday night, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir were conducting a search of the homes of two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists when powerful explosions destroyed both properties. The suspects, Adil Hussain Thokar and Asif Sheikh, were the targets of the operation. Explosives planted inside their homes detonated during the search, causing significant damage and completely destroying the houses. Further search operation is ongoing.

Accused in Pahalgam Attack

Some users claimed that the Indian army allegedly blew up the houses, while locals stated that the terrorists had kept explosives inside their homes for security, which detonated during the search operation.

Adil Hussain Thokar, hailing from Anantnag district in South Kashmir, is believed to have played a key role in planning and executing the Pahalgam terror attack that took place on Tuesday. Asif Sheikh, a resident of Tral in Pulwama district, is suspected of being involved in the conspiracy behind the attack, aiding in its planning.

The house of terrorist Asif Sheikh, who was involved in the #PahalgamTerrorAttack, was blown up by the Indian Army.

Small action, but a good start… Expecting something big.. pic.twitter.com/3pvGA4LoAF

— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) April 25, 2025

Conflicting Reports on the Number of Destroyed Houses

While local authorities confirmed the destruction of Asif Sheikh’s house, according to report both Sheikh’s and Thokar’s houses were destroyed in the explosions. This incident highlights the dangerous tactics employed by terrorists, who often rig their homes with explosives to avoid arrest or to target security personnel during raids.

This morning, houses belonging to two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were blown up in an explosion in Kashmir. According to army sources, a search operation was underway at the residence of Asif Sheikh in Tral and Adil Thokar in Bijbehara, Anantnag.

During the operation, explosives… pic.twitter.com/CR7mPpeaUI

— Harsh Patel (@Harshpatel1408) April 25, 2025

Pakistani Deputy PM Calls Pahalgam Terrorists ‘Freedom Fighters’, After 2 Pakistani Suspects Identified | WATCH

April 25, 2025, 11:28 am

In the aftermath of the deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 26 people, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has sparked controversy by calling the attackers “freedom fighters.” The attack, which occurred on Tuesday in Jammu and Kashmir’s scenic Pahalgam area, is believed to have been carried out by Pakistani militants linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist group.

Pakistan’s Reaction to the Attack

The Pahalgam massacre has drawn sharp reactions from both the Indian government and the Pakistani leadership. According to Jammu and Kashmir police, at least two of the terrorists involved in the attack were identified as Pakistani nationals: Hashim Musa (alias Sulaiman) and Ali Bhai (alias Talha Bhai). Dar’s comments labeling the terrorists as “freedom fighters” have been met with widespread criticism, further intensifying tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

?SHOCKING: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister referred to the terrorists who killed the tourists in Pahalgam as “freedom fighters.”

PAKISTAN IS A TERRORIST STATE. PERIOD. pic.twitter.com/dEiA69ji7B

— BALA (@erbmjha) April 24, 2025

Dar’s Controversial Remarks

In a media interaction on Thursday, Dar defended the Pahalgam attackers, stating that their actions were justified as part of a larger “freedom struggle.” His comments come at a time when India has blamed Pakistan for being behind the attack, with intelligence suggesting that the LeT was the mastermind. The Indian government has repeatedly accused Pakistan of harboring and supporting terror groups operating in Kashmir and other regions.

Pakistan’s Strong Stand on the Indus Water Treaty

Adding fuel to the fire, Dar also criticized India’s recent decision to suspend the Indus Water Treaty, a landmark agreement governing the distribution of water from the Indus River system between India and Pakistan. India’s announcement to put the treaty “in abeyance” has been regarded by Pakistan as an “act of war.”

Dar stated, “Two hundred and forty million people in Pakistan need water… you cannot stop it. It is tantamount to an act of war. Any suspension or encroachment won’t be accepted.” This was in direct response to India’s actions, which have further complicated the already tense bilateral relations.

Pakistan’s Retaliatory Measures

In retaliation, Pakistan announced the suspension of all bilateral agreements with India, including the historic Simla Agreement of 1972. The Simla Agreement ended the war of 1971 and laid the foundation for India-Pakistan relations in the subsequent decades. Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC), chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, issued a statement declaring that any attempt by India to divert the flow of water would be viewed as an act of war.

“We will make them pay through their noses. If our citizens are harmed by India, Indian citizens will not remain safe either. It will be tit-for-tat,” said Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, adding to the mounting rhetoric.

India Blames Pakistan for the Attack

The Indian government has formally blamed Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack, citing the LeT’s involvement in the massacre. In an FIR filed by the Jammu and Kashmir police, the authorities confirmed that the attackers had been acting under instructions from their handlers across the border. The attack, which targeted innocent tourists, has sparked national outrage, with citizens across India demanding stronger counter-terrorism measures.

India’s accusations against Pakistan are not new. The LeT, based in Pakistan and supported by its intelligence agencies, has been responsible for numerous terrorist attacks in Kashmir and other parts of India.

Growing Tensions

The Pahalgam terrorist attack has added a new layer of complexity to the already volatile relationship between India and Pakistan. With Dar’s controversial remarks and Pakistan’s harsh response to India’s decision on the Indus Water Treaty, the situation remains fraught with tension. The attack has further polarized public opinion on both sides of the border, and it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold in the coming weeks.

Both countries have now hardened their positions, and the international community watches closely as tensions continue to escalate in the region.

Lashkar-e-Taiba’s Abu Qatal, Rajouri Attack Mastermind, Shot Dead In Pakistan

March 16, 2025, 8:52 am

Faisal Nadeem, widely known by his alias Abu Qatal, a top operative of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and one of its most wanted terrorists, was killed in Pakistan on Saturday night, according to India Today. Qatal, a close associate of Hafiz Saeed—the mastermind behind the 26/11 Mumbai attacks—played a crucial role in orchestrating terrorist activities in the region.

Connection to Rajouri Attacks

Abu Qatal, along with two other Pakistan-based LeT handlers, had been charge-sheeted by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with the January 2023 terror attacks in Rajouri. The charge-sheet, registered under case RC-01 & 02/2023/NIA/JMU, pertained to the attack on civilians in Dhangri, Rajouri, on January 1, 2023, followed by an IED blast the next day. These attacks claimed the lives of seven people, including two children, and left several others seriously injured.

The Terrorist Trio

The investigation identified three key LeT operatives involved in the Rajouri attacks:

Abu Qatal (Faisal Nadeem): A principal figure in LeT’s global operations.
Saifullah alias Sajid Jutt: Also known by aliases such as Ali, Habibullah, and Nouman.
Mohd Qasim: An operative who reportedly crossed into Pakistan around 2002 and later joined LeT.

Authorities revealed that this trio was instrumental in recruiting and deploying LeT terrorists from Pakistan to target civilians—particularly members of minority communities—and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir.

Implications for Regional Security

The death of Abu Qatal marks a significant development in efforts to dismantle LeT’s terror network in the region. His elimination, combined with ongoing investigations by the NIA, underscores the international and regional collaboration aimed at curbing terrorism. The operations have targeted recruitment pipelines and the deployment strategies of LeT, which has been responsible for numerous high-profile attacks in South Asia.

Global Counterterrorism Efforts

This latest operation is part of a broader campaign against terrorist networks that threaten both regional and global security. With continued pressure from international agencies and regional forces, the elimination of key figures like Abu Qatal is expected to disrupt the operational capabilities of groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Authorities remain vigilant, and further measures are anticipated to ensure that terrorist networks are systematically dismantled. The international community watches closely as both India and Pakistan, along with global partners, work to neutralize these persistent security threats.

‘Security Apparatus Must Do Everything Possible To End This Spurt of Attacks’: CM Omar Abdullah

November 3, 2024, 4:05 pm

In response to a grenade attack that left ten civilians injured in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has condemned the violence, urging security forces to take swift action to prevent further incidents. Abdullah posted on X, “The last few days have been dominated by headlines of attacks & encounters in parts of the valley. Today’s news of a grenade attack on innocent shoppers at the ‘Sunday market’ in Srinagar is deeply disturbing. There can be no justification for targeting innocent civilians. The security apparatus must do everything possible to end this spurt of attacks at the earliest so that people can go about their lives without any fear.”

The attack occurred near the Tourist Reception Centre, a high-security area close to Srinagar’s bustling Lal Chowk, where a grenade was thrown amidst the crowds in a popular Sunday market. The explosive landed on a street vendor’s cart, triggering panic among shoppers as they scrambled for cover.

Details of the Injured

The explosion wounded ten civilians, who were immediately rushed to SMHS Hospital for treatment. The injured included Misba, aged 17; Azaan Kaloo, 17; Habibullah Rather, 50; Altaf Ahmad Seer, 21; Faizal Ahmad, 16; Uer Farooq; Faizan Mushtaq, 20; Zahid, 19; Ghulam Muhammad Sofi, 55; and Sumaiya Jan, 45. Four individuals received first aid and were subsequently discharged, while the others continue to receive medical care.

Recent Escalation of Violence

This incident comes on the heels of heightened tensions in the region. Just a day prior, security forces neutralised a top Pakistani commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in an operation in Srinagar’s Khanyar area. This spate of violence has led to a noticeable increase in security operations and public concerns about safety.

Security Response and Investigations Underway

Following the grenade attack, the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG) was deployed to the scene, and a search operation is now underway to locate those responsible for the attack. Security forces have ramped up their presence in the area, focusing on reassuring the public and maintaining stability amidst the recent rise in attacks.

Also read: Militants Attack Tourist Reception Center and Sunday Market with Grenade in Srinagar

The attack disrupted what is typically a lively Sunday shopping experience, leaving the area tense and on high alert. Abdullah’s statements underscore the urgency for security forces to prevent further civilian-targeted violence in Srinagar, emphasizing the need for stability so that residents can live without fear in their day-to-day lives.

Ganderbal Terror Attack: NIA Likely to Take Over Probe as Lashkar Link Emerges in Killing of Seven

October 21, 2024, 4:10 pm

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the Gagangir terror attack, where seven people, including a doctor and five construction workers, were killed on Sunday. Addressing a gathering in Srinagar, Sinha expressed his condolences and urged the Jammu and Kashmir Police to swiftly identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.

A doctor, Shahnawaz Dar, a designer, and five workers were shot by terrorists at a construction site in Gagangir, Ganderbal district. Mohsin Shahnawaz Dar, the son of Dr. Shahnawaz, expressed grief over his father’s death, sharing that his father had hoped he would become a doctor, though Mohsin aspired to become an IAS officer. He called upon the administration for help in achieving his dream after his father’s tragic death.

The attack occurred as the workers were returning to their camp from a tunnel construction site on the Srinagar-Leh national highway. Terrorist group The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the killings, which reportedly targeted migrant workers. The TRF’s leader, Sheikh Sajjad Gul, is believed to have masterminded the attack.

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah condemned the violence, blaming Pakistan for its role in promoting terror activities. He urged Pakistan’s leadership to halt terror activities if they seek improved relations with India. Abdullah firmly stated, “Kashmir will not become Pakistan,” and warned of severe consequences if terrorism continues.

A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), led by a senior officer, arrived at the attack site in Ganderbal to assist local police in the investigation. The NIA is expected to take over the probe into the attack, with a Superintendent of Police (SP) rank officer leading the investigation.

Following the attack, security forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), heightened their presence and cordoned off the area. The attack marks a significant escalation in violence in the Ganderbal region, which had largely remained peaceful for over a decade.

Also read: Canada Claims Lawrence Bishnoi Behind Air India Flight Terror Attack Bombing

Former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Shesh Paul Vaid condemned Pakistan’s “deep state” for orchestrating the attack, particularly in light of recent diplomatic engagements between India and Pakistan.

Jammu And Kashmir Terror Attacks: PM Modi Reviews Security Situation

June 13, 2024, 5:18 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a high-level meeting on Thursday to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir following a recent surge in terror attacks. The meeting, attended by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other senior officials, provided a comprehensive overview of the security challenges and the counter-terror efforts underway in the union territory.

Series of Terror Attacks:

Over the past few days, Jammu and Kashmir has experienced a series of coordinated terrorist attacks. The violence began on Sunday when terrorists attacked a bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi district. The bus veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge, resulting in the deaths of nine pilgrims and injuries to 41 others.

Two days later, terrorists targeted a joint security checkpost in Doda district, injuring six security personnel. On the same night, a violent encounter in Saida Sukhal village, Kathua district, led to the death of one Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan and one terrorist.

The violence continued on Wednesday evening with another attack in the Kota Top area of Doda district, where a policeman was injured in a gunfight with terrorists.

Prime Minister’s Response:

During Thursday’s meeting, Prime Minister Modi was briefed on the current security scenario and the measures being taken to counter the terrorist threat. He emphasized the need to deploy the full spectrum of India’s counter-terror capabilities to ensure the safety and security of the region. Modi also held discussions with Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the deployment of additional security forces and the ongoing counter-terror operations.

Lashkar-e-Taiba Involvement:

The Jammu and Kashmir police have attributed the recent spate of attacks to the terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Sketches of four terrorists involved in the attacks in Doda district have been released as part of the investigation. The police have formed 11 teams to probe the attacks, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is also assessing the situation in Reasi.

Enhanced Security Measures:

The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. With increased deployment of security personnel and intensified counter-terror operations, the authorities are working to prevent further attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The recent terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir have highlighted the persistent security challenges in the region. Prime Minister Modi’s review of the situation and the government’s comprehensive counter-terror strategy reflect India’s resolve to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of its citizens. As the situation develops, the focus remains on neutralizing the terrorist threat and maintaining peace in the union territory.

Reasi Attack: Is Lashkar-e-Taiba Aiming To Revive Its Deadly Campaign In J&K?

June 10, 2024, 4:02 pm

In a tragic incident on Sunday evening, a terror attack in Reasi, Jammu, claimed the lives of ten Hindu pilgrims en route to Vaishno Devi, with another 33 individuals sustaining injuries. The attack occurred when jihadists opened fire on the bus carrying the pilgrims, causing it to plunge into a gorge.

Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) is purportedly behind the assault, as claimed by the front group TRF associated with LeT. The timing of the attack, deliberately coinciding with the swearing-in ceremony of Modi 3.0 at Reasi, underscores its sinister intent.

Official sources reveal that around 12 jihadists are believed to be operating within the Rajouri-Poonch forests in the Jammu region, with the group comprising Pakistani nationals. Despite denials of the existence of a cross-LoC tunnel by Indian security forces and the army, concerns persist regarding the infiltration routes utilized by the perpetrators.

The Poonch-Rajouri sector has been a hotspot for skirmishes between the Indian Army and jihadists over the past five years, with casualties on the Indian side being notably high due to the element of surprise and swift movement by the terrorists.

In response to the attack, the Modi government, including Home Minister Amit Shah, has taken the matter seriously, especially with the impending commencement of the Amarnath yatra on June 29. Efforts to enhance counter-insurgency operations in the Rajouri-Poonch sector are underway, albeit hindered by the challenging terrain.

While India vows to retaliate to the Reasi attack, the imperative remains for the Jammu and Kashmir Police, paramilitary forces, and the Indian Army to collaborate effectively to neutralize the threat posed by the Pakistani group. With significant deployments in the Jammu sector, minimizing civilian and military casualties is paramount.

As investigations continue into the Reasi terror attack, the nation remains resolute in its determination to combat terrorism and safeguard the lives of its citizens.

Background of LeT:

Lashkar e taiba (LeT), designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) since December 26, 2001, underpins the sinister attack. Led by Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, LeT has orchestrated numerous deadly assaults, including the infamous 2008 Mumbai attacks.

Global Impact and Continued Activity:

Despite bans and restrictions, LeT maintains operational networks in South Asia, posing a significant threat to regional stability and security. Its continued activity, despite being banned by the Pakistani government, underscores the urgency for international cooperation to dismantle its networks.

With LeT persisting in its nefarious activities, a unified call to action resonates across the international community. The imperative for collaborative efforts to eradicate this pervasive threat is emphasized, underscoring the importance of proactive measures against terrorism in all forms.

NIA Conducts Raids on 19 Locations in South India Linked to Suspected Jihadi Terror Group

December 18, 2023, 11:37 am

In a major operation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) launched simultaneous searches at 19 locations in South India, successfully dismantling a highly radicalized jihadi terror group, according to official sources.

The anti-terror agency, in collaboration with state police forces, initiated the raids early this morning, targeting sites predominantly associated with suspects linked to the uncovered jihadi group. Operational secrecy was maintained, and specific details about the locations and the group were not disclosed due to ongoing operational considerations.

Sources reveal that the targeted terror group has been actively involved in anti-India activities, focusing on planning attacks and recruiting youths. The NIA’s intervention follows recent raids in Bengaluru, Karnataka, where the agency probed the radicalization of prisoners by a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist.

On December 13, the NIA conducted extensive searches at six locations, including the residences of four accused individuals and premises connected to two other suspects. Notably, one of the accused remains at large. The raids, conducted as part of the ongoing investigation (RC-28/2023/NIA/DLI), yielded substantial evidence, including digital devices, incriminating documents, and a cash amount of Rs 7.3 lakhs.

The accused, identified as Mohammed Umar, Mohammed Faisal Rabbani, Tanveer Ahmed, and Mohammed Farooq, along with absconder Junaid Ahmed, are implicated in a case registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and the Explosive Substances Act, 1884. Presently, three individuals involved in the case remain fugitives.

Two Lashkar-e-Taiba terror associates detained in J-K’s Srinagar

November 22, 2023, 4:16 pm

In the Srinagar district of Jammu and Kashmir, two terrorist associates of the Pakistan-based, internationally outlawed terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were taken into custody, and weapons and ammunition were found in their possession, police said on Wednesday. Officials report that on November 21, the terror associates were taken into custody.

“Two terrorist associates, Mumtaz Ahmad Lone and Jahangir Ahmad Lone, both residents of Trehgam, Kupwara, were arrested on the spot and a huge cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from their possession, which included 2 pistols, 4 magazines, 2 filler magazines and 8 grenades,” they said in a statement.

After receiving information on Tuesday regarding the movement of alleged terrorists along the National Highway bypass, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Srinagar Police jointly established a strong checkpoint near the Sham Lal gas pump in N R Colony at the NHW bypass. “A white Santro car with a J-K registration number that was traveling from Parimpora to Tengpora attempted to flee when it saw the police party at the checkpoint during naka checking,” they reported.

“However, they were apprehended tactfully by the team of officials present on the spot,” they said.
Following their arrests, a case under relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention Act) (UAPA), Explosive Act and Arms Act has been registered at Batamaloo police station. “Investigation has been started into the case,” police added in their statement.

J&K: LeT hybrid terrorist killed in encounter

November 20, 2022, 1:19 pm

During a search operation in Jammu and Kashmir, terrorists opened fire which hit a hybrid terrorist of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) who was with the search party for the identification of a terrorist hideout, according to the information Jammu and Kashmir police.

Sajjad Tantray, a LeT hybrid terrorist, was from Kulgam. “LeT hybrid terrorist Sajjad Tantray of Kulgam, who was with the search group to identify a hiding, was hit by terrorist fire when the search party approached the suspected hideout. When he was transported to the hospital, the doctors pronounced him dead “police in Jammu and Kashmir stated.

According to the J-K police, hybrid militant Sajjad Tantray, who was formerly a LeT militant associate, admitted to attacking two outside labourers on November 13 of this year.

The J&K Police said, “During investigation hybrid militant Sajjad Tantray, who was earlier a militant associate of LeT and released from PSA, revealed that he’d attacked two outside labourers on Nov 13 this year at Rakhmomen, Bijbehara in Anantnag who were seriously injured.”

Earlier in the day, an encounter broke out at the Cheki Dudoo area of Bijbehara in the Anantnag district, informed the J-K police.
“Encounter started at Cheki Dudoo area of Bijbehara in Anantnag district. Police and Army are on the job. Details shall follow,” Tweeted Kashmir Zone Police.