Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora has recently emphasized the strengthening strategic alliance between the United States and India, highlighting a mutual understanding regarding the threat of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Deora, currently part of an all-party parliamentary delegation visiting the U.S., asserted that America recognizes and supports India's right to defend itself against such threats.
Deora's statements come amid ongoing discussions between the Indian delegation and U.S. officials, think tanks, and policymakers, focusing on "Operation Sindoor" and India's firm stance against terrorism. The delegation, led by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, aims to convey India's resolve and underscore Pakistan's connections to terrorist activities.
According to Deora, the understanding of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in America is rooted in historical events, primarily the 9/11 terror attacks. He pointed out that the terrorists involved in the attacks were trained in Pakistan, which subsequently led to the U.S. launching its global war on terror and eventually locating Osama bin Laden within Pakistan's borders. He noted that the Foreign Affairs Committee of the U.S. has voiced their support for India's right to defend itself should Pakistan be involved in any misadventures.
Deora also addressed the economic aspects of the India-U.S. relationship, emphasizing that peace, strong borders, and overall security are vital for sustained American investments in India. He expressed a desire for a stable neighbor but cautioned against the risks posed by instability.
Furthermore, Deora commented on the simultaneous presence of a Pakistani parliamentary delegation, led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, in Washington D.C. He expressed skepticism about Pakistan's ability to salvage its image, describing it as a "banana republic, a failed state, a terror exporter" where the civilian government lacks genuine authority. He added that every terrorist attack in the last 20-30 years has had investigations that directly or indirectly lead to Pakistan and that over 50 UN-designated terrorists have formed a safe haven in Pakistan.
Echoing Deora's sentiments, other members of the Indian delegation have highlighted the global consensus forming against Pakistan-originated terrorism. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya noted the absence of sympathy towards Pakistan-sponsored terrorism among the countries visited by the delegation, asserting that they understand India's need to respond militarily and support its counterterrorism measures.
Former Indian Ambassador to the U.S., Taranjit Sandhu, part of the delegation, urged American policymakers to treat the threat of terrorism as a national security issue, reminding them that the same terrorists who threaten India have also threatened the United States in the past. He said that India is fighting the battle on behalf of the world, especially the United States.
Shashi Tharoor, the leader of the delegation, explained the significance behind the name 'Operation Sindoor,' India's counter-terrorism response following the April 22 Pahalgam attack, symbolizing the avenging of the attack on Indian women.
The delegation's visit also saw discussions on strengthening counterterrorism cooperation between India and the U.S., including intelligence sharing, joint military exercises, and collaboration in multilateral forums. Both countries have expressed shared concerns over cross-border terrorism and called for accountability for attacks originating from Pakistan.
