S. Jaishankar Emphasizes Zero Tolerance for Terrorism, Warns Pakistan of Consequences if Attacks Persist
During his recent three-nation tour of Europe, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar strongly emphasized India’s firm stance against terrorism, holding Pakistan’s government and military directly responsible for supporting terror infrastructure within their country.
He warned that continued cross-border attacks would bring serious consequences, reiterating that India seeks a permanent and definitive end to terrorism.
Jaishankar’s Candid Message from the Netherlands
In a series of interviews with the Dutch media during his visit to the Netherlands on May 19–20, Jaishankar made several bold statements regarding Pakistan’s involvement in terrorism.
When asked about Islamabad’s role, he responded unequivocally, “I’m not suggesting, I’m stating it. The Pakistani state and its army are deeply complicit.
The world knows the most infamous terrorists on the UN sanctions list operate openly in Pakistan’s cities. Their addresses and networks are no secret.”
He further questioned how any government could claim ignorance about such large-scale militant activity occurring openly within its borders, drawing a pointed comparison to European cities.
“Imagine thousands of people gathering for military training in the heart of Amsterdam. Could your government claim it doesn’t know? Of course not,” he said.
Response to Trump’s Claims
Jaishankar also dismissed US President Donald Trump’s claims of playing a role in brokering peace between India and Pakistan after the recent military standoff known as Operation Sindoor.
He clarified that the ceasefire was achieved through direct communication between India and Pakistan, without third-party mediation.
“We told all countries, including the US, that if Pakistan wanted to end hostilities, we needed to hear it from them directly. And that’s exactly what happened — their General contacted ours,” he stated.
President Trump had claimed credit for de-escalation during a conversation with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, but Jaishankar firmly rebutted this narrative while in The Hague, asserting India’s policy of bilateral engagement on such matters.
The Kashmir Issue and Future Dialogue
When asked if the resolution of the Kashmir dispute should precede peace talks, Jaishankar made India’s position clear: terrorism is a separate and universally unacceptable crime that must not be linked to any political issue.
He condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which targeted the region’s vibrant tourism sector, and criticized efforts to frame such attacks with a communal angle.
On Kashmir’s status, he reaffirmed India’s historical and legal position, stating, “Jammu and Kashmir legally acceded to India in 1947. The parts currently under illegal occupation should be returned to India — the rightful owner.”
He rejected any foreign mediation, including offers from the US, asserting, “This is a bilateral issue. Only India and Pakistan are parties to this matter.”
India’s Right to Respond
On the issue of retaliatory action, Jaishankar was clear: “If there is another terrorist attack, there will be a response. If terrorists are hiding in Pakistan, we will strike them where they are.” He explained that continuation of military operations serves as a warning, making it clear that India is ready and willing to act against terrorism, but that this should not be confused with a return to active conflict.
Linking National Security with Economic Growth
Responding to a question on whether India’s security challenges, particularly from China and Pakistan, were affecting its economic progress, Jaishankar said the two aspects were intertwined.
“In India, security and economic prosperity are two sides of the same coin. Unlike Europe, our threats are more immediate and serious. So we’ve had to prioritize security to ensure long-term stability and growth.”
Strengthening Ties with Europe
Jaishankar’s visit to The Hague also served as groundwork for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s postponed visit to the Netherlands, which was delayed due to tensions with Pakistan.
In the final leg of his trip in Berlin, he chaired a regional conference of Indian ambassadors based in Europe. The focus was on India’s global messaging around terrorism, the outcomes of Operation Sindoor, and developing deeper partnerships with European countries in light of evolving geopolitical challenges.
Posting on social media platform X, he shared, “We discussed #OpSindoor and reaffirmed our stance of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We also strategized on how to engage more effectively with Europe during this time of change.”
Dr. S. Jaishankar’s remarks send a strong message to both Pakistan and the international community: India will not tolerate terrorism, and any future attacks will be met with decisive action. At the same time, India remains committed to peaceful, bilateral resolutions — but on its terms, and without external interference.
