Is TRF's Ban a Diplomatic Victory? Jaishankar Explains

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India's diplomatic efforts led to TRF's US designation as a terrorist organization.
- Operation Sindoor was a decisive military response to terrorism.
- International support for India's counter-terrorism stance is growing.
- The global community condemns cross-border terrorism.
- Unity among citizens is vital in the fight against terrorism.
New Delhi, July 28 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Monday attributed the US's designation of The Resistance Front (TRF), a terror organization supported by Pakistan, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) to Indian diplomatic efforts.
During a discussion in the Lok Sabha regarding Operation Sindoor, Jaishankar accused Pakistan of providing protection to the TRF, despite its involvement in heinous attacks on Indian territory being revealed worldwide.
“The TRF has claimed responsibility for the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on two occasions. While Pakistan has consistently denied this, the TRF has now been classified as a global terrorist entity. Pakistan continues to defend and provide shelter to them,” he informed the House.
He emphasized that the US's decision was a direct result of India's diplomatic initiatives.
“Thanks to our diplomatic efforts, the TRF has received a Global Terrorist Organisation designation from the US government. The same Pakistani foreign minister, who previously took pride in defending the TRF, has now conceded that if the US has acted, we accept it,” Jaishankar remarked.
The incident in Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, led to India's defensive Operation Sindoor. Jaishankar stated that this military action conveyed a strong and clear message to both Pakistan and the terrorist groups operating from its territory.
“Through Operation Sindoor, India communicated that it will protect itself, and it will do so decisively,” he stated.
Furthermore, Jaishankar highlighted that only three nations, including Pakistan, opposed India's response. He asserted that the global consensus overwhelmingly supported India's right to self-defense.
“The world was eager to know India's stance; we delivered a unified message. India is exercising its right to self-defense. There will be no mediation with Pakistan, and we will not succumb to Pakistan’s nuclear intimidation,” he declared, dismissing any speculation about third-party involvement in resolving the ongoing tensions.
The External Affairs Minister noted that the Quad nations, along with BRICS members, including China, condemned the Pahalgam attack and recognized India's right to retaliate.
“BRICS countries rallied behind us against terrorism and condemned the Pahalgam attack. China, as part of BRICS, has also acknowledged that cross-border terrorism is a global concern. The world recognizes that Operation Sindoor is a legitimate fight against terrorism,” Jaishankar added, emphasizing the increasing international alignment with India's counter-terrorism stance.
He called upon all political parties and citizens to unite in support of the armed forces.
“We must stand resolutely with our forces to thwart significant threats,” he urged, noting that India's battle against terrorism is not solely military but also diplomatic, and one it is determined to win.