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Economic Warfare Behind the Pahalgam Attack

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam was an act of economic warfare aimed at destroying tourism in Kashmir. He emphasized that India has made it clear that it will not be deterred by nuclear blackmail from Pakistan in responding to terrorism. Speaking on Monday, Jaishankar noted that there have been numerous terrorist attacks from Pakistan in recent years, and following the Pahalgam incident on April 22, there is a prevailing sentiment in India that enough is enough. His remarks were made during a discussion with News Media CEO Dev Prasad at the One World Trade Center near the 9/11 memorial in Manhattan.

The Attack's Intentions

Jaishankar described the Pahalgam attack as "an act of economic warfare," aimed at undermining tourism, which is a crucial part of the region's economy. He pointed out that the attack also sought to incite religious violence, as victims were asked to identify their faith before being targeted. He asserted that allowing terrorists to operate without consequences is unacceptable, challenging the notion that their actions across the border should prevent retaliation.

Condemning Terrorism Publicly

During his remarks, Jaishankar highlighted the necessity of publicly condemning terrorism when it is supported by a neighboring country, particularly when it is fueled by extremist ideologies. On his three-day visit to the United States, he inaugurated an exhibition titled 'The Human Cost of Terrorism' at the United Nations headquarters. This exhibition will be displayed at two locations within the UN from June 30 to July 3 and again from July 7 to July 11.

Global Support Against Cross-Border Terrorism

The exhibition's opening coincided with Pakistan assuming the presidency of the UN Security Council for July. Jaishankar stated that when terrorism is supported by a neighboring nation and is driven by extremist fervor, it is crucial to expose it publicly. He emphasized that showcasing the devastation caused by terrorism is one way to achieve this. The exhibition aims to garner global support for India's campaign against cross-border terrorism.

Highlighting the Human Cost of Terrorism

The digital exhibition features horrific terrorist attacks, including the 1993 Mumbai bombings and the 2008 Mumbai attacks, as well as the Pahalgam incident. It also lists the terrorist organizations responsible, including the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Jaishankar expressed that the exhibition serves as a solemn reminder of the human cost of terrorism, honoring those who have lost their lives due to its violence.

A Call to Action Against Terrorism

Jaishankar remarked that the images and narratives presented in the exhibition tell the stories of lives destroyed by terrorism. He stressed the urgent need for collective responsibility in combating all forms of terrorism. He urged that at the United Nations, there should be a commitment not only to remember the victims but also to uphold the values and human rights that terrorism seeks to undermine. He reiterated that terrorism poses one of the gravest threats to humanity, contradicting the principles of human rights and international norms.

The Global Response to Terrorism

Referring to the Pahalgam attack, Jaishankar noted that just five weeks prior, the UN Security Council condemned this particularly heinous act of terrorism and called for accountability for those responsible. He emphasized that the global community must unite around fundamental concepts, such as not granting any leniency to terrorists and resisting nuclear threats. He concluded by stating that terrorism sponsored by any nation must be exposed, as we have learned that terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere.

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