Is Masood Azhar's Comeback Imminent After Operation Sindoor?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, Masood Azhar, the leader of Jaish-e-Muhammad, is reportedly in a vulnerable state following significant losses. With misinformation circulating about him, the intelligence community is closely watching his situation as he remains hidden under protective custody. What does this mean for the future of Jaish-e-Muhammad?
Key Takeaways
- Masood Azhar is currently in protective custody.
- His organization, Jaish-e-Muhammad, has suffered major losses due to Operation Sindoor.
- There is widespread misinformation regarding Azhar's status.
- His absence has led to a decline in morale among his followers.
- Intelligence agencies are closely monitoring his situation.
New Delhi, Sep 6 (NationPress) A wave of misinformation and outdated videos has emerged regarding the chief of Jaish-e-Muhammad, Masood Azhar. According to intelligence reports, following Operation Sindoor, Azhar has been relocated to a secure location.
His absence from public view is a deliberate move for his safety, yet it's evident that he is in a state of despair. Among the various terror groups affected by India’s Operation Sindoor, Jaish-e-Muhammad suffered the most severe blow.
The Bahawalpur headquarters, once a prominent symbol of the Jaish-e-Muhammad’s strength, was so heavily impacted that it has been completely destroyed. This devastating loss has not only wounded the organization’s pride but has also underscored the reach of the Indian military within Pakistan.
Moreover, Azhar is grappling with profound personal loss. In the aftermath of the strike conducted in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack, he lamented the deaths of ten family members. Intelligence analysts suggest that his emotional turmoil stems more from this personal tragedy than from the loss of his operatives.
After the operation, Azhar reported the deaths of ten family members and four associates, all of whom were present at the Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, the Jaish-e-Muhammad's headquarters.
He claimed in a statement that five innocent children, his elder sister, and her husband were amongst the casualties. Although he professed to feel no regret or despair, this assertion appears to be misleading.
His silence has sparked concern among his followers, leading to a significant decline in new recruitments as the Jaish-e-Muhammad struggles without a successor to Azhar.
To reassure the cadre, the leadership is disseminating old videos and speeches of Azhar, attempting to pass them off as fresh content. When asked about his absence, they cite security concerns.
Initially, the ISI sought to relocate him to Afghanistan, but deemed it too perilous. Tensions between the ISI and the Taliban have exacerbated this situation, prompting the ISI to position him in a military-secured area.
According to intelligence sources, he is currently under the protection of the Pakistan Army in Rawalpindi. Following rumors of a heart attack, he was briefly hospitalized, and he was moved again for renal treatment.
Security experts monitoring the Jaish-e-Muhammad predict that Azhar will eventually return, though it may take longer given his personal losses. The Pakistan Army and ISI continue to shield him, as he remains one of their most critical assets. Without Azhar, the Jaish-e-Muhammad risks becoming defunct, as he stands as their most formidable proxy after Hafiz Saeed of Lashkar-e-Taiba, and the ISI has no intention of losing him.
Presently, he is under the protective custody of the army and ISI, with Indian agencies closely monitoring him, convinced that he will inevitably re-emerge.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain vigilant and report on the evolving dynamics surrounding Masood Azhar and Jaish-e-Muhammad. The implications of his situation are significant not only for regional security but also for the broader fight against terrorism. Our commitment is to provide accurate and timely information while maintaining a balanced perspective.
NationPress
06/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Masood Azhar?
Masood Azhar is currently believed to be in protective custody under the Pakistan Army and ISI, following the significant losses his organization incurred during Operation Sindoor.
Why has Masood Azhar not appeared in public?
His absence from public view is a strategic decision for his safety, compounded by personal losses he has suffered recently.
How has Operation Sindoor affected Jaish-e-Muhammad?
Operation Sindoor has severely crippled Jaish-e-Muhammad, leading to the destruction of their headquarters and a decline in new recruitments.
What are the implications of Azhar's silence for his organization?
Azhar's silence has raised concerns among his followers, leading to a drop in morale and recruitment within the organization.
Is there any indication of Azhar making a comeback?
Intelligence officials believe that Azhar may make a comeback, although it may take longer due to his recent personal losses.
