A Decisive Blow to Cross-Border Terrorism

29/07/2025

In what can only be described as a significant triumph for India's counterterrorism efforts, the mastermind behind the horrific Pahalgam terror attack-Sulieman alias Asif-was neutralized on Monday along with two of his associates by the Indian Army's elite para commandos in an operation aptly codenamed Operation Mahadev. This high-stakes encounter on the outskirts of Srinagar is a defining moment in the nation's continued battle against cross-border terrorism.The elimination of Sulieman, believed to be the architect of the brutal April 22 attack in Baisaran meadows, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent people-mostly tourists-sends a strong and clear message: those who orchestrate terror in Kashmir will not escape justice. His death, along with that of his accomplices Jibran and Hamza Afghani, brings partial closure to the families who lost loved ones in one of the most heinous acts of violence in recent memory.
What stands out is the precision and efficiency with which this mission was executed. The operation was triggered by the interception of satellite phone signals-testament to India's growing technical surveillance capabilities. This technological edge, combined with the bravery of ground forces, turned intelligence into action with surgical effectiveness.The killed terrorist Jibran was also allegedly responsible for the October 2024 attack on the Sonamarg Tunnel project at Gagangir, where seven lives were lost, including that of a doctor. His death, too, marks the end of a chapter of violence that had left deep scars on the civilian and security landscape of the region. Yet, while the encounter offers a moment of relief, it also highlights the continuing threat of cross-border terror networks. The presence of foreign terrorists like Hamza Afghani is a stark reminder that the infrastructure supporting such operatives-often rooted in Pakistan-remains active and dangerous. India's launch of Operation Sindoor against these terror networks underscores the need for sustained and aggressive countermeasures not just within our borders but against their external patrons as well.
The recovery of sophisticated weaponry, including an M4 carbine rifle and AK-series guns, further underscores the scale of the threat. These are not sporadic, homegrown militants-but heavily armed, trained insurgents, part of a larger, well-supported strategy aimed at destabilizing Kashmir and spreading fear.While this successful operation must be lauded, it also raises urgent questions for the international community. The time has come for global powers to hold accountable those nations that continue to serve as breeding grounds and sanctuaries for terrorism. Diplomatic pressure, sanctions, and isolation must follow for regimes that enable such acts of violence.In the meantime, India's resolve must remain unwavering. Intelligence agencies and security forces must continue to operate in synergy, not just to respond to threats but to preempt them. The memory of Pahalgam's victims demands no less.
The nation salutes the brave hearts who made this operation a success. Justice has been delivered-not through words, but through decisive action. Let this be a turning point, a moment when terror is met not with fear, but with unrelenting resolve.

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