
Pahalgam attack: US takes strong stance against TRF, labels it Foreign Terrorist Organisation - The Economic Times Video

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Indian Express
9 hours ago
- Indian Express
Designating TRF as a terrorist group is welcome, but US has a tendency to play both sides
Asim Munir's recent visit to Washington reaffirmed Pakistan's alignment with US strategic interests. Publicly endorsed by CENTCOM chief General Kurilla as a 'phenomenal partner,' Pakistan continues to position itself as a counterterrorism ally, despite its longstanding use of militant groups as foreign policy tools. These developments underscore the transactional nature of the US-Pakistan relationship, where tactical alignment often overshadows long-term strategic divergence. For India, this highlights the need for vigilance and independence in dealing with regional security issues, particularly as Washington continues to balance its ties with both Islamabad and New Delhi. India's approach must be practical, based on realism, and free from the historical baggage that hinders progress. The recent designation of The Resistance Forum (TRF), a rebranded offshoot of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), as a global terror organisation by the US represents more than just a counter-terrorism action. It sends a strategic message that connects with broader regional dynamics and internal shifts within Pakistan. The US has long utilised terror designations, military aid, and economic pressure as tools of influence. The timing of the TRF's listing — during backchannel meetings, changing alliances, and defence cooperation talks — should not be seen as coincidental. Pakistan, under the informal control of the powerful military establishment led by Munir, remains a central player in this situation. Reports that Munir may be preparing for a transition from military to civilian leadership — possibly as the country's next president — add a new layer of complexity. The Pakistani Army has always played a dual role, exerting de facto political power while maintaining the appearance of democratic governance. If Munir does become president, it would formalise what has long been an open secret: Pakistan is a state run by its generals, not its elected officials. Munir's current influence, untethered by public accountability, distorts Pakistan's already fragile democratic structure. His management of both foreign and domestic policy blurs the line between governance and military strategy. Recent high-level meetings involving Munir and the Chief of Pakistan Air Force (PAF), coinciding with the TRF's terror designation, raise questions about the legitimacy and goals of these interactions. The backdrop to these engagements is likely Pakistan's urgent military needs. Indian punitive strikes during Operation Sindoor caused significant damage to key Pakistani airbases at Nur Khan and Sargodha, amongst others, requiring repairs and replacements. The PAF is reportedly seeking spare parts for its F-16 fleet — a need that cannot be met without US cooperation. It appears that the Pakistani government is quietly collaborating with Washington to secure this support without resorting to IMF or World Bank funds, thereby avoiding scrutiny of military spending amid economic instability. This implicit understanding between the US and Pakistan reflects an evolving relationship. Washington no longer views Islamabad solely through the lens of the Afghan conflict but instead as a flexible partner, willing to meet demands in exchange for support. The days of aid in exchange for loyalty are gone — now, cooperation is transactional, and Pakistan's leadership appears more than eager to cooperate. For India, this situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The shifting alignment of US interests — sometimes favouring Pakistan, at other times leaning toward India — requires a clear and focused response. American support for Indian security remains strong, but it is not without conditions. Washington will prioritise its national interests above all, even if that means playing both sides in South Asia. Whether it's counterterrorism cooperation, arms sales, or trade negotiations, New Delhi must assert its independence with Washington. American tariffs and weapons deals serve as tools of influence, often used to sway policy decisions or gain concessions. India's autonomy is crucial in these interactions, and it must remain focused on its national interests and avoid being manipulated into a state of dependency. Meanwhile, new alignments are starting to form. Russia and China are showing renewed interest in strengthening the Russia-India-China (RIC) alliance. Although this trilateral framework lacks the strength of NATO or QUAD, it serves as an essential counterbalance to Western influence. India should explore this space, not out of unquestioning loyalty, but to prevent undue pressure from any single power bloc. The re-emergence of the Taliban in Afghanistan, three decades after being ousted, and the US's ongoing operational presence in the region (including leasing airbases and printing Afghan currency) indicate a long-term American interest in Central and South Asia. These actions are not driven by altruism — they are part of a calculated strategy to maintain influence in one of the world's most volatile regions. India must recognise that it is being watched, evaluated, and targeted by global powers who see it as both a partner and a pawn. In this environment, the principles of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) gain renewed relevance. Not the NAM of the Cold War era, but a reimagined model — one that is pragmatic, flexible, and focused on issue-based cooperation rather than ideological loyalty. To navigate this complexity, India must also look inward. There is an urgent need to engage its neighbours, not as subordinates, but as equal stakeholders. The Subcontinent cannot afford to be shackled by its past. While historical wrongs and unresolved disputes persist, they must not define the future. The policy of strategic patience must be replaced with a strategic approach to problem-solving, one that values and promotes regional cooperation. This means reevaluating relationships with nations such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and even Pakistan. It involves restarting stalled dialogues, not to compromise sovereignty or national security, but to build a regional consensus that benefits India. Assertiveness must be balanced with diplomacy, and power must be tempered by responsibility. India's path forward should be neither isolationist nor interventionist — it should be independent. We must assert our narrative, unfiltered by Western media, unpressured by superpower coercion, and unfazed by regional provocations. The TRF listing, the whispers of a presidential coup in Pakistan, and the transactional nature of US foreign policy are all reminders that the game is on. We must shed the weight of the past. We cannot undo Partition. We cannot undo wars. But we can choose how we move forward. Let history be a lesson, not a leash. Let us walk forward — eyes open, feet grounded, and purpose clear. The writer is a lieutenant colonel, former Armoured Corps officer, defence analyst and strategic thinker


Time of India
9 hours ago
- Time of India
Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar supports Pahalgam attacker TRF, questions where is the proof of Kashmir attack
On 18 July, the United States officially designated The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. The announcement was made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio following a series of attacks the group has been linked to, including the brutal assault in Jammu and Kashmir earlier this year. Just a day later, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar delivered a pointed speech in Parliament, rejecting the accusations against TRF. Speaking about the UN Security Council's statement on the Pahalgam attack , he revealed that Pakistan had used its diplomatic position to keep TRF's name out of the official condemnation. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Project Management Operations Management Data Science Management Digital Marketing MBA Leadership Artificial Intelligence Data Analytics MCA Design Thinking Cybersecurity Data Science Public Policy healthcare CXO PGDM Technology Finance others Product Management Degree Others Healthcare Skills you'll gain: Portfolio Management Project Planning & Risk Analysis Strategic Project/Portfolio Selection Adaptive & Agile Project Management Duration: 6 Months IIT Delhi Certificate Programme in Project Management Starts on May 30, 2024 Get Details Skills you'll gain: Project Planning & Governance Agile Software Development Practices Project Management Tools & Software Techniques Scrum Framework Duration: 12 Weeks Indian School of Business Certificate Programme in IT Project Management Starts on Jun 20, 2024 Get Details 'We opposed the mention of TRF in the UNSC statement. I got calls from global capitals, but Pakistan will not accept,' Dar said. 'TRF was deleted, and Pakistan prevailed.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Container Houses Indonesia (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search ads Search Now Undo — OsintTV (@OsintTV) He went further: 'We don't consider TRF illegal. Show us proof they carried out the Pahalgam attack. Show ownership by TRF. We won't accept the allegation, and TRF had to be deleted from the UN press release.' A separate video clip from April, now resurfacing, shows Dar making similar remarks. 'Alhamdulillah, we are a non-permanent member of the UNSC. We don't consider TRF illegal. Show the evidence that TRF carried out the Pahalgam attack or prove its ownership. We will not accept these claims, TRF had to be deleted from the UN press release,' he can be heard saying. Live Events 'TRF, a Lashkar-e-Taiba front and proxy, claimed responsibility for the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack which killed 26 civilians,' the US State Department said in a statement. It further noted, 'TRF has also claimed responsibility for several attacks against Indian security forces, including most recently in 2024.' Rubio described the Pahalgam killings as 'the deadliest assault on civilians in India since 2008' and added, 'These actions demonstrate the Trump administration's commitment to protecting our national security interests and seeking justice for victims of terrorism.' With the designation, TRF will now face US-led financial sanctions and its ability to draw support from individuals and entities under American jurisdiction will be restricted. Jaishankar welcomes US decision India responded swiftly to the US move. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called the decision a strong signal of India-US cooperation on security issues. 'Appreciate SecRubio and @StateDept for designating TRF, a Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) proxy, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). It claimed responsibility for the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Zero tolerance for terrorism,' Jaishankar posted on X. — DrSJaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) The Pahalgam massacre: What happened The Pahalgam terror attack took place on 22 April and left 26 civilians dead. Most of the victims were Hindus. Survivors recalled that the gunmen separated the women and children, then ordered the men to recite the Islamic declaration of faith. Many were killed on the spot. The assault was one of the most severe in recent years and ignited a wave of violence across the region. Over the next four days, escalating clashes along the Line of Control resulted in over 70 reported deaths. It was the worst standoff between Indian and Pakistani forces since the Kargil conflict in 1999. TRF initially claimed responsibility for the attack in a post that was later deleted. Despite that, both India and the United States have cited intelligence linking TRF to the Lashkar-e-Taiba network, a UN-designated terrorist group operating out of Pakistan. India continues to view TRF as a terror group operating under the umbrella of Lashkar-e-Taiba. New Delhi has consistently maintained that Pakistan backs such outfits as proxies to destabilise Kashmir and carry out cross-border attacks. Pakistan, however, refuses to acknowledge TRF's involvement. Ishaq Dar's statements in Parliament reflect Islamabad's hardened stance, even in the face of international pressure and mounting evidence. The contrasting reactions from India and Pakistan underscore the larger diplomatic battle now unfolding. On one side, the US and India are aligning on counter-terrorism. On the other, Pakistan is digging in its heels, rejecting any claims that tie TRF to the Pahalgam attack or to its soil. The fallout from this will likely be felt beyond Kashmir. As global scrutiny grows, so will the pressure on Pakistan to explain its position.


News18
9 hours ago
- News18
'You Don't Get A Pass, You Get Justice': US House Foreign Affairs Panel Hails TRF Terror Tag
Last Updated: The panel also reiterated its criticism of global media coverage of the Pahalgam attack, accusing outlets of downplaying what it called a clear act of terrorism The US Republican Majority on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs has welcomed the designation of Pakistan-based The Resistance Front (TRF) as a global terrorist outfit. The group, which the US designated as a proxy of Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) in its announcement, was labelled both a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). 'The Resistance Front is a foreign terrorist organization and deserves the designation," the committee's official X handle posted. 'When you butcher civilians, you don't get a pass—you get JUSTICE." President Trump calls it like it is. The Resistance Front is a foreign terrorist organization and deserves the you butcher civilians, you don't get a pass—you get JUSTICE. — House Foreign Affairs Committee Majority (@HouseForeignGOP) July 19, 2025 The announcement was made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, less than three months after the April 22 massacre in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where TRF claimed responsibility for the killing of 26 civilians. It was one of the deadliest attacks targeting civilians in the region in recent years. The Resistance Front first emerged in Kashmir in 2019, shortly after the abrogation of Article 370. It was widely seen as an attempt by Lashkar-e-Tayyiba to rebrand its operations under a new name to avoid global scrutiny. Since then, TRF has claimed responsibility for several attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, many of which have targeted off-duty security personnel, civilians from outside the region, and minority communities. The FTO and SDGT designations trigger sweeping measures including financial sanctions, asset freezes, visa bans, and criminal penalties for those providing any form of material support to the group. TRF, the State Department noted, serves as a front for LeT, an internationally proscribed terror group, and operates to obscure the latter's direct involvement in attacks. Indian authorities have repeatedly raised concerns over such proxy outfits being used to bypass global sanctions. On July 19, the committee also cited its earlier post from April 23, in which it had criticised international media coverage of the Pahalgam attack — particularly a New York Times headline that read: 'At Least 24 Tourists Gunned Down by Militants in Kashmir." At the time, the committee had responded with a corrected graphic, replacing the word 'militants" with 'terrorists" in bold red, writing: 'Hey, @nytimes, we fixed it for you. This was a terrorist attack plain and simple. Whether it's India or Israel, when it comes to terrorism, the NYT is removed from reality." Reposting that on July 19, the committee reaffirmed: 'It was a terrorist attack — simple and straightforward." It was a terrorist attack—simple and straightforward. — House Foreign Affairs Committee Majority (@HouseForeignGOP) July 19, 2025 The House Foreign Affairs Committee is a permanent committee in the US House of Representatives. It handles bills and investigations related to America's foreign relations. The latest US action is expected to bolster international scrutiny of Pakistan-based terror proxies, particularly at forums like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), where the country's counterterror commitments remain under watch. India welcomed the US decision, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar describing it as a 'strong affirmation" of India-US counter-terror cooperation. 'Appreciate @SecRubio and @StateDept for designating TRF—a Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) proxy—as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). It claimed responsibility for the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Zero tolerance for Terrorism. #OpSindoor," External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar posted on X. Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 21, 2025, 12:46 IST News world 'You Don't Get A Pass, You Get Justice': US House Foreign Affairs Panel Hails TRF Terror Tag Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.