External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that its primary objective was to instill fear, disrupt the region's economy, and incite religious animosity. Speaking at the German Council on Foreign Relations on Friday, May 23, 2025, Jaishankar characterized the attack as a deliberate attempt to destabilize the region and undermine India's socio-economic stability.
Jaishankar articulated that the terrorists aimed to create a "fear psychosis" among the local population and tourists, thereby crippling Kashmir's tourism-dependent economy. Furthermore, he asserted that the attack was designed to "sow religious discord" by targeting individuals based on their faith. Reports indicate that the terrorists specifically identified victims by their religion before carrying out the killings.
The Pahalgam attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. This prompted a strong retaliatory response from India in the form of "Operation Sindoor," which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled territories. Jaishankar affirmed that India's actions were aimed at countering cross-border terrorism, which has long been a tool used against India.
Jaishankar highlighted that the international community increasingly understands and supports India's stance on counter-terrorism. He noted that there is widespread condemnation of terrorism and growing recognition of India's right to defend itself. Germany, in particular, has shown strong solidarity with India, condemning the Pahalgam attack and affirming India's right to self-defense. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul reiterated this support during a joint press conference with Jaishankar in Berlin, emphasizing the importance of bilateral dialogue between India and Pakistan to resolve conflicts.
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India launched "Operation Sindoor" on May 7, 2025, targeting terrorist infrastructure at nine sites in territories controlled by Pakistan. This led to intense clashes involving drones, missiles, and long-range weapons before both sides agreed to halt military actions on May 10, 2025. Jaishankar clarified that while there was a cessation of fighting, "Operation Sindoor" continues to send a clear message that India will respond decisively to any future acts of terrorism. He stated firmly that "if the terrorists are in Pakistan, we will hit them where they are."
Jaishankar also addressed the circumstances surrounding the ceasefire, stating that it was a bilateral decision between India and Pakistan, without any mediation from third parties like the United States. He emphasized that the resolution was reached after Indian strikes compelled the Pakistani military to acknowledge the need to stop cross-border firing.
Furthermore, Jaishankar alluded to the "extreme religious outlook" of Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, suggesting it as a contributing factor to the Pahalgam attack. He highlighted Munir's remarks about the two-nation theory, made a week before the attack, as indicative of a mindset that fuels religious extremism and violence.
Jaishankar reiterated India's firm stance on engaging with Pakistan only through bilateral means, rejecting any external interference. He also reaffirmed India's claim over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, demanding its return.
