June 11, 2025 — In the wake of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, India has issued a stern warning to Pakistan, declaring that it will strike "deep into Pakistan" if provoked again. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s right to protect its citizens from terrorism and called for global support in holding terror outfits accountable.
During his diplomatic visit to Europe, Jaishankar reaffirmed India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and criticized Pakistan for what he described as the continued use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy. His remarks were made just weeks after India launched Operation Sindoor, a military response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack that claimed the lives of 26 Indian nationals.
Jaishankar: “We Will Go Deep into Pakistan If Needed”
In an interview with Politico, Jaishankar stated:
“If they [terrorists] are deep in Pakistan, we will go deep into Pakistan. We are not going to live with it. There will be retribution — not just rhetoric, but action — against terrorist organizations and their leadership.”
The minister's comments came after a series of precision air strikes by Indian forces on terror infrastructure located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7. The strikes targeted key Pakistani airfields and were followed by four days of military hostilities, which ended after a ceasefire agreement on May 10 through military-to-military dialogue.
Jaishankar said the fighting ceased because of India's successful disabling of eight major Pakistani airfields, a claim supported by satellite images showing damaged runways and hangars. He credited India’s advanced defense systems, including the Rafale fighter jets, for inflicting extensive damage.
India-EU Strategic Dialogue: Terrorism and Regional Peace
On the diplomatic front, Jaishankar participated in the first India-European Union Strategic Dialogue, held in Brussels, where he met with EU High Representative Kaja Kallas. Both sides unequivocally condemned the Pahalgam attack and affirmed that every sovereign nation has the right to protect its citizens from terrorism.
Kallas expressed strong support for India's stance, stating:
“Those responsible for the Pahalgam attack must be held accountable. At the same time, de-escalation is important, and we encourage continued India-Pakistan engagement for long-term regional peace.”
Jaishankar urged the EU to understand the situation as India vs. “Terroristan”, criticizing any tolerance of cross-border terrorism and rejecting nuclear blackmail tactics. He emphasized the need for international partners to recognize the asymmetric threat India faces from state-supported non-state actors.
Root Cause of Conflict: State-Sponsored Terrorism
Addressing the core issue, Jaishankar remarked:
“Pakistan is steeped in its use of terrorism as a state policy. If the commitment to terrorism continues, so will the tensions.”
He alleged that “thousands” of terrorists are being trained openly in Pakistan and are being “unleashed” on India, especially in Jammu & Kashmir. These claims come amid increasing calls from global human rights organizations for stricter international scrutiny on terror networks operating in South Asia.
Operation Sindoor and the Regional Impact
Operation Sindoor, India's retaliatory campaign, marked one of the most assertive cross-border military actions since the Balakot airstrikes of 2019. While the operation was limited in scope and duration, analysts view it as a clear signal of India’s evolving doctrine — moving from strategic restraint to pre-emptive and punitive action in the face of terror threats.
Though hostilities have ceased for now, tensions remain high. The EU and other international bodies have urged both nuclear-armed neighbors to exercise restraint and resume diplomatic engagement to maintain stability in South Asia.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Cooperation and Security Priorities
During his week-long visit, Jaishankar is expected to meet leaders from France and Belgium, aiming to strengthen defense ties and technological cooperation. The tour underscores India's broader geopolitical strategy — building alliances with democratic nations while reinforcing its commitment to counter-terrorism.
In conclusion, India has made it clear: there will be no tolerance for cross-border terrorism, and any future provocations will be met with a swift and decisive response. With growing international support, India is positioning itself not just as a victim of terror but as a nation capable of defending its sovereignty with strength and purpose.
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