‘Terrorism Is Now on Global Agenda’, Says Jaishankar In Op Sindoor Debate In Rajya Sabha

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, addressing the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic efforts have successfully placed terrorism at the center of the global agenda. Speaking during a debate on the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and India’s counter-initiatives under ‘Operation Sindoor’, Jaishankar detailed a series of diplomatic and military actions taken to combat Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

He highlighted India’s multi-pronged strategy, stating, “We have exerted pressure on Pakistan through various means, including trade and diplomacy.” Jaishankar pointed to significant diplomatic victories, including a United Nations report that for the first time explicitly named The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-based proxy terror outfit. He also informed the House of the successful extradition of Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the Mumbai terror attacks, who is now facing trial in India, calling it a “significant legal and diplomatic milestone.” Further successes include the UN designation of terrorists like Masood Azhar and Abdul Rehman Makki, despite past opposition from China.

Outlining India’s uncompromising position, Jaishankar confirmed that the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan has been held in abeyance. “The agreement will remain suspended until terrorism ends,” he declared, calling it a “very important decision.” He also noted that visas issued to Pakistani nationals under the SAARC framework have been cancelled as part of a consistent pushback against cross-border terrorism. Reaffirming the government’s policy, he said, “blood and water will not run together.”

The minister also countered Opposition claims, clarifying that there was no direct telephone conversation between Prime Minister Modi and former US President Donald Trump between April 22 and May 16. While engagements occurred with the US, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, India’s message remained clear: any ceasefire would require a formal request from Pakistan through the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO).

In a sharp critique of the previous UPA government, Jaishankar remarked that it continued dialogue with Pakistan despite devastating events like the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. He concluded by stating that India will not be intimidated by nuclear threats. “Prime Minister Modi has corrected [former Prime Minister Jawaharlal] Nehru Ji’s mistakes. We will not bow down to Pakistan’s nuclear blackmail,” Jaishankar asserted.