The United States has recently designated The Resistance Front (TRF), a front organization for Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. This move comes nearly three months after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, for which TRF claimed responsibility. The US State Department's decision is seen as a diplomatic victory for India and a strong affirmation of US-India counter-terrorism cooperation.

Background and Context

For over two decades, the US has pursued a counterterrorism policy in South Asia that combines alignment with India and strategic privileges for Pakistan. However, this approach has faced challenges, including repeated terror attacks on India and a need for institutional changes to shift the landscape.

India has long grappled with cross-border terrorism, with attacks like the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and the 2019 Pulwama bombing. These attacks have been attributed to terrorist groups operating from Pakistan. India has, at times, maintained a policy of strategic restraint, but has also taken steps like the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrike to demonstrate its resolve against terrorism.

US-India Counterterrorism Cooperation

The US and India share a strategic partnership founded on shared values, including a commitment to democracy and upholding the rules-based international system. Counterterrorism cooperation has become a cornerstone of this relationship, particularly after 9/11 in the US and the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

This cooperation includes:

• Intelligence Sharing: Exchanging vital information, threat assessments, and actionable intelligence.
• Joint Military Exercises: Conducting exercises to enhance counterterrorism capabilities.
• Counterterrorism Initiatives: Sharing best practices and information through training programs, joint working groups, and interactions at bilateral, regional, and global levels.
• Designations Dialogue: Launching initiatives like the US-India Counterterrorism Designations Dialogue to enhance information sharing and terrorist designations.

The Designation of TRF: A "Bone" for India?

The US designation of TRF as a Foreign Terrorist Organization can be interpreted as a move to strengthen ties with India and address its concerns about cross-border terrorism. It signals a commitment to eliminate terrorist safe havens and bring perpetrators of attacks to justice.

Several factors support this interpretation:

• Timing: The designation comes after the Pahalgam attack, demonstrating a response to a specific instance of terrorism affecting India.
• Joint Statements: The US and India have consistently reaffirmed their commitment to counterterrorism, urging Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of terror attacks.
• Extradition: The US has approved the extradition to India of individuals accused in the Mumbai terror attacks, further demonstrating cooperation.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the strengthened cooperation, challenges and differing perspectives remain:

• Differing Strategies: The US tends to favor a unilateral, military approach to counterterrorism, while India prefers a multilateral, diplomatic strategy.
• Pakistan Factor: The US maintains a complex relationship with Pakistan, which can create friction in its counterterrorism relationship with India. The US continues to extend Major Non-NATO Ally status to Pakistan.
• Scope of Cooperation: There needs to be greater clarity on the scope of US-India counterterrorism cooperation, particularly if South Asia is a lower priority for the US administration.

India's Perspective and Strategy

India's approach to counterterrorism is rooted in international legal principles, particularly the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. India has also been proactive in international forums, highlighting the dangers of state-sponsored terrorism and pushing for action against terror funding and cross-border networks.

Conclusion

The US designation of TRF as a Foreign Terrorist Organization is a welcome step for India in its fight against cross-border terrorism. It reflects the growing US-India partnership and shared concerns about regional security. However, challenges remain in aligning strategies and addressing the complex dynamics of the region. The effectiveness of this "bone" will depend on sustained commitment, clear communication, and a comprehensive approach to counterterrorism that addresses both immediate threats and long-term stability.