Will Quad Members Hold Perpetrators of the Red Fort Blast Accountable?
Synopsis
In a significant move, Quad partners—India, Japan, Australia, and the US—have condemned last month's Red Fort attack, demanding justice for the perpetrators. This comes amidst a broader discussion on counterterrorism strategies in the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting their commitment to a terror-free environment.
Key Takeaways
Quad members unite against terrorism.
Demand for justice for Red Fort blast perpetrators.
Emphasis on global cooperation in counterterrorism.
Indo-Pacific security remains a top priority.
Next Quad CTWG meeting set for 2026 .
New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) In a clear denunciation of terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism, the Quad partners—comprising India, Japan, Australia, and the United States—have collectively demanded that the individuals responsible for, as well as those who organized and financed, the recent terrorist attack near Delhi's Red Fort be prosecuted. They also called upon all UN Member States to collaborate in this effort.
Offering their condolences regarding the tragic event on November 10, the Quad nations exchanged insights on the evolving threat of terrorism during the two-day 3rd Quad Counter Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) meeting, which concluded in New Delhi on Friday, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The Quad CTWG was initiated during the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi in March 2023, with this latest assembly occurring as part of India’s role in hosting the forthcoming Quad Summit.
The meeting was chaired by senior officials tasked with countering terrorism, including Dr. Vinod Bahade, Joint Secretary for Counter Terrorism from India's Ministry of External Affairs; Gemma Huggins, Ambassador for Counter Terrorism from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Minami Hiroyuki, Ambassador responsible for International Cooperation against Terrorism from Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Monica Ager Jacobsen, Senior Bureau Official from the United States Department of State Counterterrorism Bureau, who led their respective delegations.
In his keynote address, MEA's Secretary West, Ambassador Sibi George, emphasized the necessity for a unified approach within the Quad to combat the threat posed by terrorism. He urged all Quad nations to take essential actions to enhance the resilience and effectiveness of the Quad CTWG. He expressed gratitude to Quad partners for their solidarity and support in the wake of the heinous attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
The Joint Statement issued post-meeting highlighted a discussion on comprehensive counterterrorism cooperation and strategies to tackle existing and forthcoming challenges. They reaffirmed the importance of maintaining an open and terror-free Indo-Pacific.
During the meeting, a Tabletop Exercise (TTx) focusing on 'Counter Terrorism Operations in Urban Environments' was conducted, allowing counterterrorism experts to share best practices and explore potential collaborative measures for responding to complex terrorist threats. Quad partners reiterated their commitment to bolster cooperation in multilateral platforms, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing information sharing regarding terrorists, their organizations, and their affiliates.
In September, India successfully hosted two Quad CTWG workshops aimed at addressing the misuse of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for terrorist activities and on preventing the exploitation of emerging technologies for terror financing. These workshops were coordinated by the National Security Guard and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in collaboration with the MEA.
The Quad partners pledged to further enhance counterterrorism cooperation within the Quad framework and plan to hold the next Quad Counter Terrorism Working Group meeting in 2026.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the Quad's commitment to addressing the growing threat of terrorism in the region. The collaborative efforts of India, Japan, Australia, and the US reflect a united stance against violence. By advocating for justice and enhanced measures, they are not only ensuring accountability but also fostering a safer environment for all. The emphasis on cooperation among nations signifies a proactive approach in combating the evolving landscape of terrorism.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What incident is being discussed?
The article discusses a terrorist attack that occurred near Delhi's Red Fort on November 10, prompting the Quad partners to call for justice.
What measures are being taken against terrorism?
The Quad nations are enhancing counterterrorism cooperation and holding workshops to address the use of emerging technologies in terrorist activities.
Why is the Indo-Pacific important in this context?
The Indo-Pacific region is a critical area for maintaining global trade and security, making it essential to keep it free from terrorism.
When is the next Quad CTWG meeting scheduled?
The next Quad Counter Terrorism Working Group meeting is planned for 2026.
