Did Rajnath Singh Slam IMF's $2.1 Billion Bailout to Pakistan as Indirect Terror Funding?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rajnath Singh condemns IMF's bailout to Pakistan.
- Claims financial aid supports terrorism.
- Operation Sindoor targets terror infrastructure.
- India's military readiness is showcased.
- Concerns over Pakistan's history of harboring terrorists.
Bhuj, May 16 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday condemned the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for sanctioning a $2.1 billion bailout for Pakistan, asserting that any monetary support to the nation equates to indirect sponsorship of terrorism.
While addressing an audience at the Indian Air Force station in Bhuj, Minister Singh stated, "The IMF must reevaluate its decision. Any assistance to Pakistan is essentially terror financing, given that it continues to permit its territory to be exploited for launching assaults on Indian citizens."
The IMF's $2.1 billion disbursement is part of a larger $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) agreement established with Pakistan the previous year.
India has previously expressed apprehensions regarding international funds to Pakistan being misappropriated or redirected towards activities related to terrorism.
His comments followed Operation Sindoor, a recent Indian military operation aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Pakistan initiated drone and missile offensives against both civilian and military installations in northern India. The Bhuj airbase itself was targeted by Pakistani missile and drone attacks; however, Indian air defenses thwarted all incoming threats, as reported by military sources.
During his speech, Defence Minister Singh stood before a Jaguar strike fighter jet and a Pechora missile system, emblematic of the Indian Air Force's (IAF) combat readiness.
He commended the force for its swift and accurate strikes during Operation Sindoor, remarking, "The IAF eliminated terror targets quicker than many can finish their breakfast."
He also mentioned visuals from within Pakistan showcasing significant explosions at terror sites during the nighttime operations.
"Raat ke andhere mein din ka ujala dikha diya," Rajnath Singh noted, alluding to the bright flashes that briefly illuminated the surrounding areas.
He reminded the audience of Pakistan's extensive history of harboring terrorist groups.
"Even Osama bin Laden was discovered hiding in Pakistan. This is not mere coincidence—it establishes a pattern," he concluded.