India Rebukes UN Rapporteur Over D-Company Description, Reaffirms Dawood Ibrahim's Presence in Pakistan

India has sharply criticised a United Nations special rapporteur over what it described as factual inaccuracies and bias in a counter-terrorism report, while reaffirming its long-standing position that fugitive gangster and terror accused Dawood Ibrahim is based in Pakistan.

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly's Third Committee, Indian diplomat Raghoo Puri expressed concern over a report by UN Special Rapporteur Ben Saul that referred to Dawood Ibrahim's D-Company as an "India-based" criminal organisation with terrorist links.

Puri argued that such descriptions created a misleading impression by omitting crucial context regarding Dawood Ibrahim's status as a wanted terrorist and his association with global terror networks outside India.

He stated that India remained deeply concerned about what it viewed as the unacceptable practice of special rapporteurs releasing reports containing factual inaccuracies without sufficient accountability.

"We express serious concern at the unacceptable situation of the SR releasing reports with factual inaccuracies, while not being held accountable for them. This presents Member States with a fait accompli, which is unfortunate for this organisation that is facing challenges of legitimacy," Puri told the Assembly.

The Indian diplomat specifically objected to the report's reference to the UN Security Council's 2003 listing of the leader of D-Company for links with Al-Qaeda.

According to Puri, reading that reference in isolation failed to reflect the broader reality that Dawood Ibrahim and his criminal syndicate had already been wanted in India for terror-related activities since 1993.

He pointed out that the reasons for Dawood Ibrahim's designation under the UN Security Council's 1267 sanctions regime clearly reference his involvement in terrorism and his links to Al-Qaeda.

"The report mentions that in 2003, the Security Council listed the leader of one criminal group, D-Company, for association with Al-Qaeda. Read in isolation, this line paints a very different picture from the actual reality."

"This organisation and its listed leader, Dawood Ibrahim, has been wanted in India for terror attacks since 1993. This is clearly written in the narrative summary of reasons of listing under the 1267 sanctions regime."

Puri further stressed that Dawood Ibrahim had left India long before the 2003 UN designation and was operating from outside the country when he was listed for his association with Al-Qaeda and Osama bin Laden.

"Let me correct it for the record. This individual fled India much before the 2003 listing, and it was during this period, from outside our country, that he was listed for being associated with Al-Qaeda and with Osama bin Laden."

He added that Dawood Ibrahim continues to be a wanted criminal in India and noted that the UN listing places him in the same country where Osama bin Laden was eventually located and neutralised, an unmistakable reference to Pakistan.

India has for many years maintained that Dawood Ibrahim resides in Karachi and has repeatedly called on Pakistan to hand him over. The fugitive crime boss is accused of orchestrating the 1993 Mumbai serial bomb blasts, one of the deadliest terror attacks in India's history, and has been designated by both the United Nations and several countries for terrorism-related activities.

Puri also accused sections of the report of displaying bias and urged UN mandate holders to maintain the highest standards of neutrality, professionalism and impartiality.

Turning to broader issues of counter-terrorism, he warned against attempts by state or non-state actors to misuse human rights narratives to shield extremist activity or justify terrorism.

"It seems to have become fashionable for sponsors of terror to use human rights and the framework of counterterrorism to justify their misdeeds."

"Human rights framework cannot be the refuge of the perpetrators of terror and those who propagate radicalisation and extremism. Terrorism can never be justified."

Puri also responded to remarks made by Pakistan's representative during the proceedings, rejecting comments concerning Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. He described the statements as politically motivated propaganda and asserted that both Union Territories remain integral parts of India.

"Regarding the statement just made by the delegate of Pakistan, everyone in this room knows that what has been mentioned against my country, including about the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, is pure propaganda made for very narrow political gains."

"I would like to reiterate for the record that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are an inalienable part of India, and have been so, and will always remain."

The exchange comes amid continuing debates within the United Nations over balancing counter-terrorism measures with human rights protections.

Earlier in the week, India also told the UN General Assembly that human rights mechanisms should not be used for selective targeting or political pressure against individual countries.

Speaking on the issue of enforced or involuntary disappearances, Ministry of External Affairs Deputy Secretary Barkha Tamrakar highlighted India's constitutional safeguards, legal protections and institutional mechanisms for addressing allegations of human rights violations, while calling for greater accountability, transparency and international cooperation in dealing with such concerns.

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‘Hero of Humanity’: Israel To Honour Captain Smit Machchhar With Presidential Civilian Heroism Award

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has announced that Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar will receive Israel’s Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism, one of the country’s highest civilian honours, in recognition of his actions during the dramatic flydubai Flight FZ1073 incident on 30 September.

Herzog made the announcement while praising the Indian aviator for preventing what he described as a potential catastrophe and safeguarding everyone aboard the aircraft.

In a message shared on X, the Israeli President described Machchhar as a hero not only of Israel and India but of humanity as a whole.

He said he had conveyed his wishes for the pilot’s full and speedy recovery and looked forward to welcoming him to Jerusalem once he had regained his strength.

Herzog stated that, on behalf of the people of Israel, it would be an honour to personally present Machchhar with the Israeli Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism following his recovery.

In a letter dated 4 October, the President thanked the Indian pilot for his exceptional courage and determination in bringing the aircraft safely through the crisis.

Herzog noted that while reports of the incident resembled a thriller, the reality faced in the cockpit would have involved immense fear, urgency and danger.

He praised Machchhar for continuing to exercise sound judgement despite suffering severe injuries, describing his conduct as a reflection of remarkable character and bravery.

The Israeli leader also linked the pilot’s actions to the long-standing historical connection between India and Israel.

He observed that Indian troops who fought in the Holy Land more than a century ago became a lasting part of Israel’s history and said Machchhar’s heroism would likewise be remembered by future generations.

According to Herzog, the pilot’s actions further strengthened the friendship and goodwill that have developed between India and Israel in recent decades.

The President also expressed confidence that Machchhar was receiving excellent treatment in the United Arab Emirates and reiterated his hope for a complete recovery.

The award announcement came after Herzog honoured six Israeli civilians who helped prevent an alleged attempt to hijack and crash the aircraft.

During the ceremony in Jerusalem, he acknowledged that Machchhar’s courage, professionalism and determination had played the central role in averting disaster.

The six Israeli recipients of the Presidential Medal for Civilian Heroism were Tali Manes, Zvika Manes, Yaniv Hayoun, Dr Shota Musayev, Asaf Rajuan and Or Pardilov.

They were recognised for assisting in restraining the attacker and helping ensure the safety of passengers and crew during the emergency.

Machchhar is currently recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi after sustaining serious injuries during the mid-air confrontation.

According to reports, his Omani co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, launched a violent attack inside the cockpit.

Despite being wounded, the Indian captain reportedly succeeded in unlatching the cockpit door, enabling passengers and off-duty crew members to enter and overpower the attacker.

The confrontation triggered a rapid descent, with the aircraft reportedly losing around 16,000 feet in approximately two minutes before a hijacking distress signal was transmitted.

The flight was subsequently diverted and carried out an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

All 180 people on board, including passengers and crew, disembarked safely.

The incident drew international attention and widespread praise for Machchhar’s actions from political leaders, aviation experts and the public.

The Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism was established to recognise civilians who display extraordinary courage while risking their own lives to save others, making the honour particularly significant.

Reports indicate that Machchhar will become one of the very few non-Israeli citizens to receive the distinction, underlining the exceptional nature of his actions. The Indian Embassy in the UAE has remained in regular contact with the pilot, his family, hospital authorities and local officials, providing assistance throughout his recovery.

As Machchhar continues his rehabilitation, Israel has made clear that his actions aboard Flight FZ1073 will be remembered as an extraordinary act of courage that prevented a far greater tragedy and saved the lives of everyone on board.

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US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Honours Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar In Congressional Record For Bravery During Flydubai Cockpit Attack

US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has formally honoured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar in the US Congressional Record, recognising what he described as extraordinary bravery during an alleged hijacking attempt aboard flydubai Flight FZ1073 on 30 September.

The Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight was carrying 180 occupants, including four US citizens and 27 children. According to the statement, the aircraft's first officer allegedly attacked Captain Machchhar with an emergency crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft while it was in flight.

The incident reportedly caused the aircraft to descend around 16,000 feet in roughly 30 seconds, creating a potentially catastrophic situation for everyone on board.

Despite sustaining severe injuries, Captain Machchhar managed to reach and open the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew members to enter the flight deck and overpower the attacker.

Two reserve flydubai pilots who were travelling on the aircraft subsequently took control and guided the flight safely to an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

In remarks entered into the Congressional Record on 9 October, Krishnamoorthi praised the captain's courage, professionalism and presence of mind, stating that his actions gave passengers and crew the opportunity to stop the attack and prevent a major disaster.

The Congressman also highlighted the human impact of the captain's actions, noting that every passenger aboard the flight was able to return safely to their loved ones because he refused to give up despite his injuries.

Krishnamoorthi called on fellow lawmakers to join him in recognising Captain Machchhar's heroism and extended best wishes to the pilot, his wife Sonal, their two children and their wider family, while expressing hope for his swift recovery.

The recognition comes shortly after Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced that Captain Machchhar would receive Israel's Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism for helping to prevent the alleged attempt to crash the aircraft.

Herzog said the pilot's courage, professionalism and determination played a decisive role in averting a catastrophe. The President also honoured six Israeli civilians who assisted in thwarting the incident: Tali Manes, Zvika Manes, Yaniv Hayoun, Dr Shota Musayev, Asaf Rajuan and Or Pardilov.

Captain Machchhar is currently recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi after suffering serious injuries during the mid-air confrontation.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has said he is responding well to treatment and continuing to make progress. The Indian Embassy in the UAE has remained in close contact with his family, medical team and local authorities while extending all possible assistance.

Following the cockpit struggle, flydubai Flight FZ1073 was diverted to Tabuk, where all 180 occupants disembarked safely without injury, marking the successful conclusion of an incident that could otherwise have ended in tragedy.

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US House Resolution Salutes Captain Smit Machchhar’s Bravery After Foiling Flydubai Terror Plot

The US House of Representatives has introduced a bipartisan resolution honouring Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his role in preventing an alleged terrorist attack aboard flydubai Flight 1073, while also recognising the courage of the crew and passengers who helped avert a potential catastrophe.

The resolution was introduced on 5 October by Congressmen Josh Gottheimer, Don Bacon and Michael McCaul and has been referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. It honours Machchhar and all those involved in securing the aircraft, while condemning the incident as an act of terrorism.

Flight 1073 departed Dubai International Airport for Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv on 30 September carrying about 174 passengers, including four US citizens and 27 children. Most of those on board were reported to be Israeli citizens.

According to the resolution, the aircraft’s first officer allegedly attacked Captain Machchhar in the cockpit with the plane’s emergency crash axe in an attempt to seize control of the flight. During the struggle, the aircraft suffered a dramatic loss of more than 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds, creating a major aviation emergency.

Despite sustaining severe injuries, Machchhar resisted the attack and managed to unlock the cockpit door. His actions enabled off-duty pilots travelling on board to enter the flight deck and assist in regaining control, while cabin crew members and passengers helped restrain the alleged attacker.

The aircraft was safely diverted to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia, where it landed with all passengers and crew accounted for. The alleged assailant was subsequently detained.

The resolution notes that the Attorney General of the United Arab Emirates announced on 3 October that the Emirati investigation had concluded that the first officer had attempted to carry out a terrorist act.

Lawmakers praised Machchhar’s “extraordinary courage” in protecting everyone on board and commended the off-duty pilots, cabin crew and passengers whose swift intervention helped prevent disaster. The measure also wishes a full recovery to Machchhar and others injured during the incident.

In addition, the resolution calls for a full and expeditious investigation by Saudi Arabia and the UAE and urges that both the United States and Israel be kept informed of developments and findings.

The Indian Embassy in the UAE has stated that Captain Machchhar is making steady progress in his recovery and remains under close medical supervision. The mission said it is maintaining contact with his family, healthcare teams and local authorities while extending all possible assistance.

Messages of support have continued to pour in from across the world. The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi recently organised special prayers and an abhishek ceremony for the pilot’s recovery, with saints, volunteers and community members gathering to honour his actions and support his family.

The temple said prayers would continue until Machchhar has fully recovered, expressing hope that he will eventually visit the Abu Dhabi Mandir with his family.

Reports from Israeli and international media have stated that Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami allegedly intended to direct the aircraft towards Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. Israeli authorities reportedly treated the incident as a potential hijacking, scrambled fighter aircraft and temporarily heightened airspace security measures before determining that the flight had diverted towards Saudi Arabia.

Separate reports indicated that Saudi Arabia also dispatched fighter jets as the emergency unfolded. Israeli officials later stood down their response once it became clear the aircraft was preparing for an emergency landing rather than proceeding towards Tel Aviv.

US President Donald Trump later said he personally believed Iran was responsible for the attempted terrorist attack. However, no official investigation findings publicly released so far have attributed responsibility beyond the individual accused attacker.

The incident has attracted significant international attention, with Captain Machchhar receiving widespread praise from political leaders, aviation professionals and members of the public for actions credited with saving every life on board and preventing what could have become one of the most serious aviation security incidents in recent years.

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Israel Was Prepared To Shoot Down Flydubai Jet After Mid-Air Cockpit Attack Threatened Tel Aviv

Israel was prepared to take the extraordinary step of shooting down a Flydubai passenger aircraft carrying more than 150 Israeli citizens after a violent cockpit attack raised fears of a potential hijacking and a possible strike against targets in Israel.

The crisis unfolded on September 30 aboard Flydubai Flight 1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami allegedly stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar and attempted to seize control of the aircraft.

As the struggle erupted in the cockpit, the aircraft entered a dramatic descent, reportedly losing around 16,000 feet in little more than 30 seconds. The sudden plunge triggered alarm within Israel's security establishment, which feared the aircraft could be heading towards a 9/11-style attack scenario.

Efforts by the Israeli Air Force to establish radio contact with the cockpit received no response. In response, emergency protocols were immediately activated.

Israeli authorities established a command centre, closed national airspace and scrambled fighter aircraft to assess the developing threat. The incident was treated as a possible hijacking involving an aircraft approaching Israeli territory.

According to reports, Israeli fighter pilots were prepared to intercept the aircraft and conduct close visual inspections of both the cockpit and passenger cabin if the jet had continued towards Tel Aviv.

Their objective would have been to determine whether the aircraft had been successfully hijacked and whether passengers appeared to be under duress.

Had a hijacking been confirmed and the attackers remained silent, the matter would have been escalated to Israel's top political leadership, including the Defence Minister and Prime Minister.

Under Israeli procedures, the authority to order the destruction of a civilian aircraft rests solely with the Prime Minister.

Israeli officials reportedly believed that, if necessary, the aircraft could have been intercepted before reaching major national targets such as Ben Gurion Airport or Tel Aviv's Azrieli Centre.

The situation changed when authorities determined that the aircraft had diverted away from Israel and was heading towards Saudi Arabia.

Israeli fighter jets were subsequently recalled, while Saudi Arabia scrambled its own aircraft as the emergency unfolded within the region's airspace.

The crisis was ultimately resolved through the actions of Captain Machchhar, who continued fighting despite suffering severe injuries after being attacked with a cockpit crash axe. The injured captain succeeded in unlocking the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene.

Passengers then overpowered al-Hammami, ending the immediate threat inside the cockpit.

Two off-duty pilots travelling aboard the flight subsequently took control of the aircraft and safely diverted it to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, bringing one of the most serious aviation security incidents in recent years to a close.

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Flydubai Co-Pilot Allegedly Plotted 9/11-Style Attack On Israel's Ben Gurion Airport

Investigators are examining allegations that Flydubai First Officer Hamam al-Hammami, an Omani national currently under arrest, intended to carry out a mass-casualty attack by crashing Flight 1073 into a target in Israel after allegedly killing the aircraft's captain.

According to reports, al-Hammami told investigators he planned to continue the flight normally after incapacitating Captain Smit Machchhar, allowing him to obtain routine landing clearances and avoid raising suspicion before attempting to crash the aircraft into a building or another aircraft at Ben Gurion Airport.

Investigators were told that the alleged attack was launched while the aircraft was passing over Jordan and approaching Israeli airspace. Al-Hammami reportedly believed that acting shortly before arrival would leave little time for authorities or passengers to intervene.

Reports further claimed that, had he been unable to reach his intended target at the airport, he considered crashing the aircraft into a skyscraper in Tel Aviv or a US military installation in Jordan.

The plan was ultimately disrupted when Captain Machchhar, despite suffering serious head injuries, fought back. He reportedly transmitted distress signals and opened the cockpit door, enabling cabin crew and passengers to overpower the co-pilot. Two off-duty pilots then assisted in safely bringing the aircraft to Saudi Arabia.

Speaking from hospital in Abu Dhabi last week, Captain Machchhar said al-Hammami had asked for permission to pray shortly before allegedly attacking him with a crash axe. The captain initially believed the aircraft had been struck before realising the blows were coming from inside the cockpit.

Israeli media reports claimed that al-Hammami had originally intended to carry out the attack in July but delayed it because he had formed a friendship with one of the crew members.

Sources cited in those reports said he had travelled to Ben Gurion Airport multiple times after joining Flydubai and allegedly used a June visit to gather information and prepare for the operation.

According to another report, al-Hammami claimed he specifically sought employment with Flydubai because the airline operated services between the UAE and Tel Aviv. He allegedly told investigators that he had conceived the plan even before being hired.

An Italian newspaper reported that, after the alleged assault on the captain, al-Hammami switched off the aircraft's engines and pushed the rudders forward. The aircraft reportedly descended around 16,000 feet in less than a minute and reached an extremely high speed before control was regained.

The incident has triggered scrutiny of aviation security procedures across several countries. Preliminary findings have raised questions about how an individual allegedly known for extremist views was able to continue flying commercially.

Officials have reportedly stated that Oman had previously restricted al-Hammami from flying because of concerns linked to his alleged extremist beliefs.

Questions have also been raised over how an Omani citizen from a country without diplomatic relations with Israel was permitted to operate flights carrying Israeli passengers into Tel Aviv.

Reports described al-Hammami, 29, as the son of an Omani father and a Syrian mother. He reportedly spent time in Syria during the civil war and was alleged to have shared online content expressing support for al-Qaeda.

The incident has also prompted debate over passenger and crew vetting procedures. Regional officials said Emirati authorities routinely shared details about passengers and crew members, including nationalities, and that Israeli authorities did not initially raise concerns regarding anyone on board.

Israel's Shin Bet said responsibility for reviewing foreign flight manifests rests with the Transportation Ministry. However, Transport Minister Miri Regev stated that security agencies are responsible for aviation security and that her ministry had not received the relevant passenger information or warnings.

Aviation officials noted that sharing such information is standard procedure, but the head of aviation security at the Transportation Ministry said the ministry relies on security checks conducted in the country of origin and lacks the capability to individually screen every passenger and crew member on every international flight.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine how the alleged plot developed, whether warning signs were missed, and what security changes may be required to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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Confirmed: Flydubai Co-Pilot Used Cockpit Crash Axe In Terrorist Attack Says UAE

The United Arab Emirates has formally described the dramatic incident aboard flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv as an attempted terrorist attack, stating that co-pilot Hamam Alhammami allegedly assaulted Captain Smit Machchhar with a cockpit crash axe and attempted to seize control of the aircraft.

According to investigators, Alhammami launched the attack while the Boeing 737 was cruising at around 34,000 feet, triggering a serious in-flight emergency aboard an aircraft carrying more than 170 passengers and crew, including 24 children.

A crash axe is standard emergency equipment carried in commercial aircraft cockpits under international aviation regulations.

The tool is intended for emergency situations, including gaining access through aircraft structures following accidents. Following the 9/11 attacks, such equipment was moved from passenger cabins to secured cockpit areas.

UAE prosecutors said the co-pilot attempted to take control of the aircraft after attacking the captain. Authorities have classified the incident as an attempted terrorist act and have launched a wider investigation into the suspect's motives, digital footprint and any potential links to extremist organisations. Investigators are also examining whether he acted alone or was influenced by a broader network.

The situation rapidly escalated as the aircraft entered a steep descent. Reports indicate the jet dropped from approximately 34,000 feet to around 15,600 feet, creating panic among passengers and crew.

Despite suffering severe injuries, Captain Machchhar reportedly managed to unlock the cockpit door, enabling cabin crew and passengers to intervene. Their actions helped overpower the attacker and prevent what officials and investigators believe could have become a catastrophic crash.

Video recorded inside the aircraft showed scenes of chaos, with the injured captain lying in a pool of blood while describing how he had been attacked by his co-pilot.

A passenger who was a dentist reportedly provided urgent medical assistance to Captain Machchhar while two relief flydubai pilots on board stepped in to assume control of the aircraft. The flight was subsequently diverted to Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.

The UAE Attorney General's office stated that the investigation remains ongoing and that findings will be released once all necessary legal and forensic procedures have been completed. The UAE is leading the probe, with international cooperation expected from other interested authorities.

Alhammami has been identified as an Omani national. Reports emerging after the incident indicate that he had previously faced restrictions on flying duties in Oman amid concerns that he had adopted extremist views.

According to those reports, he worked as a co-pilot trainee with Oman Air in 2024 and was allegedly found in possession of extremist material. He was subsequently transferred to an administrative role before leaving the airline in February 2025.

He later joined Royal Air Maroc in June 2025 before departing in January 2026. He then joined flydubai, where he served for approximately eight months before the incident.

The revelations have raised questions about aviation sector background-screening procedures and how an individual reportedly flagged over extremist concerns was subsequently able to secure flight-deck positions with other carriers, including on the politically sensitive UAE-Israel route.

Additional reports have suggested that investigators are examining claims that Alhammami may have intended to crash the aircraft in Israel, although authorities have not yet released final conclusions regarding the full scope of his alleged plans.

Captain Machchhar's actions, alongside the intervention of crew members, passengers and relief pilots, have been widely credited with preventing one of the most serious aviation security incidents in recent years. Several passengers and officials have described the Indian captain as a hero for continuing to fight for control of the situation despite sustaining life-threatening injuries.

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Dubai Crown Prince Hamdan Honours Hero Pilot Smit Machchhar During Hospital Visit

Captain Smit Machchhar's remarkable actions aboard a flydubai flight have drawn further recognition after Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum paid him a visit in hospital.

The Indian pilot is recovering in Dubai after being seriously injured during a violent confrontation in the cockpit. According to reports, the co-pilot attempted to seize control of the aircraft in an effort to crash it.

Even while suffering severe injuries, Machchhar succeeded in opening the cockpit door, a critical move that enabled assistance to reach the flight deck and helped avert a catastrophe involving 174 people on board.

His response to the emergency has led to widespread acclaim internationally, with many praising his composure, courage and commitment to passenger safety.

During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan personally thanked the captain and highlighted the values reflected in his actions. The Crown Prince described Machchhar as a member of the UAE team and a symbol of the country's commitment to compassion, peace and the preservation of life.

In a statement posted on social media after the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan said the pilot had earned the full appreciation and praise of the nation's leadership for demonstrating extraordinary courage and responsibility.

Images from the hospital showed the Crown Prince meeting and embracing Machchhar, underscoring the significance attached to the captain's actions.

The visit represents the latest recognition for a pilot whose determination under extreme circumstances helped prevent a potentially devastating aviation tragedy and saved the lives of everyone aboard the aircraft.

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Omani Co-Pilot's Alleged Al-Qaeda Indoctrination Under Scrutiny After Tel Aviv Flight Attack

Investigators examining the 30 September attack aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073 have reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting that Omani co-pilot Hamam Alhamami underwent indoctrination into Al-Qaeda ideology and held meetings with religious figures believed to have played a role in his radicalisation.

According to reports, Alhamami had previously been prevented from flying in Oman because of concerns over extremist views. Sources indicated that much of his time had been spent outside Oman, particularly in Syria, where he was allegedly exposed to radical influences before later relocating to the UAE.

Israeli and Arab media reports stated that investigators are treating the Syria connection as a significant element of the case. Concerns surrounding his ideological beliefs and aviation background have consequently become central to the wider terrorism investigation.

Sources cited by Israeli media said the co-pilot allegedly told investigators that he intended to crash the aircraft in Israel, raising fears of a potential mass-casualty event comparable to the 11 September attacks in the United States.

Further reports indicated that Oman Air had previously removed him from pilot training because of concerns about radical views. Although he was reportedly assigned another role, questions are now being raised about how he subsequently secured employment with Flydubai.

CNN reported that the suspect was born in the UAE to an Omani father and a Syrian mother and spent several years living in the Emirates. Additional reports suggested that concerns regarding his conduct had surfaced well before he joined Flydubai.

According to sources quoted by Fox News, Oman Air grounded the co-pilot in 2024 after discovering that he had been visiting radical Islamic websites. The same sources claimed that he later moved to Dubai and that Flydubai did not consult Oman Air before employing him.

The incident unfolded while the aircraft was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. During the cockpit assault, the aircraft reportedly descended around 16,000 feet within two minutes before a hijacking distress signal was transmitted.

Despite suffering serious injuries, Captain Smit Machchhar managed to resist the attack and open the cockpit door. Cabin crew members and passengers then entered the cockpit and helped restrain the attacker, enabling the flight crew to regain control.

Two off-duty aviators travelling on the flight also assisted in stabilising the situation before the aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. All 180 people on board disembarked safely.

Investigators are also examining material allegedly recovered from the co-pilot's belongings. Reports stated that leaflets and publications linked to Free Palestine groups, together with other pro-Palestinian material, were discovered and are being reviewed as part of the inquiry.

Media reports further alleged that the co-pilot had repeatedly expressed support for Palestinians and hostility towards Israel. Authorities are examining whether those views were connected to broader claims of Islamic radicalisation and possible terrorist motives.

The investigation is now focused not only on the events inside the cockpit but also on the sequence of developments that preceded them, including his reported time in Syria, concerns raised during previous employment, alleged extremist beliefs and the recruitment processes that enabled him to fly a passenger service bound for Tel Aviv.

Captain Machchhar's actions have drawn widespread praise. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended his courage and presence of mind, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described his conduct as instrumental in preventing what could have become another 9/11-style tragedy.

The suspect was subsequently transferred from Saudi Arabia to the UAE, where he is facing a terrorism investigation as authorities continue to examine the full scope of the incident and the factors that may have led to the alleged attack.

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'Highest Number of Victims After Americans Were Indians': PM Modi Recalls 9/11 Attacks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his monthly 'Mann Ki Baat' radio program, recalled the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, stating that Indian citizens accounted for the largest group of victims outside of Americans. He conveyed his deep condolences to the affected families on behalf of the nation.

He noted that 2026 marks 25 years since the terror attacks, recalling his 2014 visit to New York as Prime Minister to pay tribute to those who lost their lives at the World Trade Centre.

These comments followed India exercising its right of reply at the United Nations General Assembly. Indian diplomat Petal Gahlot responded to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's address, pointing out that 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden was discovered hiding near Pakistan's top military academy, criticising the current Pakistani government.

The 9/11 attacks involved 19 al-Qaeda terrorists hijacking four commercial planes, resulting in two hitting New York’s World Trade Centre, one striking the Pentagon in Virginia, and another crashing in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Official figures confirm 2,977 people died in the coordinated attacks.

Prime Minister Modi also reflected on the upcoming 10th anniversary of the 2016 surgical strikes, conducted on 28–29 September, where Indian soldiers crossed the Line of Control to destroy terror hideouts. He remarked that the action established a new counter-terrorism posture for the country.

He stressed that over the last decade, operations like the Balakot airstrike and 'Operation Sindoor' have consistently demonstrated India's firm stance to neutralize cross-border threats, signalling a decisive shift in national defence policy.

Recalling domestic terror incidents, including the 13 September 2008 serial blasts in Delhi and the subsequent 26/11 Mumbai attacks, PM Modi highlighted how previous calls for firm action against Pakistan were neglected. He asserted that India now adheres strictly to a zero-tolerance stance against terrorism.

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'Drain The Swamp': India Condemns Safe Havens For LeT And JeM Terrorists

India has issued a strong censure at the United Nations Security Council over the involuntary repatriation of millions of Afghans, while simultaneously urging the dismantling of permissive environments that continue to shelter transnational terrorist networks. Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, highlighted the humanitarian plight of Afghan returnees, noting that 2.9 million Afghans were returned in 2025 and another 1.15 million by August 2026, most of them involuntarily.

He stressed that such large-scale forced returns, unsafe and undignified, would have triggered political outcry and urgent humanitarian mobilisation elsewhere, lamenting the absence of such a response in this case.

India reaffirmed that returns must be voluntary, safe, and dignified, pointing to its cooperation with UN agencies and Afghan authorities in providing housing, food, and essential provisions. Recently, India gifted family tents to the Afghan Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation, underscoring its humanitarian commitment.

The envoy then shifted focus to regional security, invoking lessons from the 9/11 attacks. He reminded the Council that al-Qaeda’s leadership did not evade justice in remote wilderness but was found sheltered in settled communities.

Osama bin Laden was tracked and killed in a fortified compound under Operation Neptune Spear, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed was captured in an ordinary residential house, Ramzi Binalshibh was found in an urban centre, Walid bin Attash was separately captured, and Mustafa Ahmed al-Hawsawi, a key financial facilitator, was also apprehended under similar circumstances.

Ambassador Harish emphasised that these operatives were not fugitives hiding in caves but individuals who thrived in permissive environments. He declared that draining such swamps that enable terrorists to prosper remains crucial.

He warned that the same permissive environment that sheltered the 9/11 masterminds continues to provide space and impunity to affiliates of al-Qaeda such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. 

These groups, he cautioned, have acquired new identities to evade sanctions while their leadership and training infrastructure remain shielded. India urged the international community to act collectively to eliminate such sanctuaries, ensuring that no more families lose loved ones to terrorism.

The reflections coincided with the recent 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. On 11 September 2001, 19 al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four commercial aircraft, crashing two into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Centre in New York, one into the Pentagon in Virginia, and a fourth into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers resisted.

The attacks killed 2,977 people, marking one of the deadliest terrorist incidents in history. The destruction of the Twin Towers and the Pentagon assault triggered a national crisis in the United States, ushering in a new era of counter-terrorism operations, military campaigns, and heightened domestic security.

At Ground Zero, annual remembrance ceremonies continue to honour victims, with family members reading aloud the names of those killed. The attacks, orchestrated by Osama bin Laden, prompted Washington to launch a global campaign against al-Qaeda and its affiliates, beginning with the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in October 2001.

Communities across the United States observed Patriot Day and the National Day of Service and Remembrance with solemn traditions, moments of silence, flags at half-staff, and volunteer projects, reinforcing resilience in the face of tragedy.

India’s intervention at the UNSC thus combined humanitarian concern with a sharp security warning, linking the plight of Afghan returnees to the enduring threat posed by permissive environments that continue to shield terrorist networks. The message was clear: unless the international community acts decisively, the conditions that enabled 9/11 could once again foster catastrophic violence.

ANI

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UN Flags Al-Qaeda's Renewed Push Into Bangladesh, Dhaka Dismisses The Warning, Raises Alarms For India

The United Nations Security Council’s monitoring team has raised concern that al-Qaeda is attempting to build cells inside Bangladesh.

The assessment suggests the group is working through small, dispersed networks rather than visible camps or offices, making detection more difficult.

Bangladesh’s Home Minister has dismissed the UN’s findings, describing them as assumption based. This stance reflects a familiar pattern in Dhaka, where governments have often treated quiet periods as proof the threat has disappeared, only to be proven wrong when networks resurface.

Chris Blackburn of Firstpost has argued that this denial echoes decades of misjudgement. Successive governments in Bangladesh have underestimated jihadist networks, failing to recognise their ability to survive crackdowns by changing names, going underground, and re-emerging when conditions allow.

The implications for India are direct and serious. Bangladesh’s jihadist organisations have historically operated across borders, with incidents such as the Burdwan blast demonstrating how networks can straddle both countries. The porous frontier makes India vulnerable to any resurgence of extremist activity in Bangladesh.

India’s counterterrorism establishment has learned not to take Dhaka’s reassurances at face value. The experience of past attacks has shown that militant groups rarely vanish; instead, they adapt, regroup and wait for opportunities.

A fragmented, low visibility al-Qaeda push in Bangladesh is precisely the kind of threat that can be ignored until it manifests violently on Indian soil.

The timing is particularly sensitive. Following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in 2024, Bangladesh’s interim government has tilted toward Beijing in defence purchases, raising questions about its strategic orientation.

This shift complicates India’s security calculus, as Dhaka’s external alignments may reduce cooperation on counterterrorism.

The UN’s warning therefore serves as a reminder that complacency is dangerous. For India, vigilance along the eastern frontier is essential, as the reconstitution of jihadist networks in Bangladesh could easily spill over.

Delhi must continue to monitor developments closely, strengthen intelligence coordination, and prepare for the possibility that Dhaka’s dismissive stance may leave gaps in regional security.

Agencies

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Posters of 19 Wanted Terrorists Put Up Across Delhi As Security Tightened Ahead of Independence Day

Delhi has been placed under the highest security alert ahead of Independence Day 2026, with posters of 19 wanted terrorists displayed across the capital and a multi-layered surveillance grid deployed around the Red Fort.

Authorities are combining manpower, advanced technology, and public awareness campaigns to counter threats from Indian Mujahideen, Al-Qaeda, and Khalistani networks.

Posters carrying photographs of 19 wanted terrorists have been put up at multiple locations across Delhi. These individuals are linked to groups such as Indian Mujahideen, Al-Qaeda, and Khalistani terror organisations.

The initiative is part of the annual security drill conducted before Independence Day and is aimed at raising public awareness and seeking assistance from citizens in identifying and tracking those considered a threat to the capital.

Delhi Police have appealed to the public to share any credible information regarding the individuals featured in the posters. Assurances have been given that informants’ identities will remain confidential, and rewards will be provided for actionable intelligence. Names such as Riyaz Bhatkal, Iqbal Bhatkal, Mohammed Sharjeel Akhtar, Abu Sufian, Syed Mohammed Arshiyan, Ranjit Singh alias Neeta, Paramjit Singh Pamma, Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, Harvinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda, Wadhawa Singh Babbar, and Gurmeet Singh Bagga are among those listed.

The Red Fort, where the main Independence Day celebrations will be held, has been placed under a multi-layered security cover. Around 15,000–20,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel are expected to be deployed for the event, which will be attended by VIPs and VVIPs. Nearly 1,000 CCTV cameras, including facial recognition-enabled systems, have been installed in and around the monument. A high-tech control room inside the Red Fort will monitor every movement within a three-kilometre radius.

Security agencies are intensifying surveillance across crowded markets, Delhi Metro stations, bus terminals, railway stations, government buildings, and sensitive installations. The Abhigyan application, which contains a database of over one crore criminals, is being used by police personnel with handheld devices to screen fingerprints.

A red alert indicates a criminal record, while a green signal confirms no match. Facial recognition vans equipped with high-resolution cameras have also been deployed at strategic locations to scan faces in crowds and match them against databases.

Snipers have been positioned at elevated vantage points, while anti-drone systems have been installed to prevent unauthorised aerial activity. Restrictions on kite flying, drones, paragliders, hot-air balloons, and micro-light aircraft have been imposed around the Red Fort to prevent breaches. Electricity distribution companies have separately warned residents against flying kites near power lines due to the dangers posed by manjha strings.

Intelligence inputs have highlighted threats from Pakistan-based terrorist organisations and Khalistani elements, as well as the possibility of sudden protests. Security agencies are maintaining heightened vigilance and close coordination to ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations. Quick Reaction Teams, rooftop deployments, and anti-sabotage checks are part of the layered defence grid.

Travel advisories have also been issued, with intensified checks at railway stations, longer queues at Metro stations, and restrictions on heavy vehicles entering Delhi around the full-dress rehearsal and Independence Day. Passengers at Delhi airport have been advised to arrive early due to enhanced screening measures.

The comprehensive security program reflects the authorities’ determination to safeguard the national capital during the high-profile event. The combination of manpower, advanced surveillance technology, and public participation is expected to reinforce confidence among citizens and ensure the safe conduct of the Independence Day celebrations.

PTI

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UNSC Attributes November 2025 Red Fort Blast To Al‑Qaida

The United Nations Security Council has formally attributed the November 2025 blast near Delhi’s Red Fort to Al‑Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent.

The attribution was made in the 38th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, published on Monday. The attack had claimed the lives of 11 people and injured more than two dozen others.

The report stated that AQIS had evolved from a fragmented organisation into a regional terrorist entity. It highlighted that the group had established logistics and financial networks while operating through decentralised, small and scattered cells rather than large units. The UNSC assessment confirmed that the Red Fort attack was carried out by AQIS.

The report also expressed concern over AQIS attempts to exploit Bangladesh to establish operational cells. This marks a significant development in the attribution of the Red Fort attack, which had earlier been linked to Jaish‑i‑Mohammed by a UN Member State. The UNSC’s 37th report had noted that JiM claimed responsibility for a series of attacks and was reported to be connected to the Red Fort blast.

The November 2025 incident occurred at around 7 pm when an explosion ripped through a moving Hyundai i20 near the Red Fort. The vehicle was allegedly driven by Umar Un Nabi, suspected to have carried out the attack as a suicide bomber. He was killed in the blast, which left 11 dead and more than two dozen injured.

The latest UNSC assessment also raised broader concerns about the activities of Al‑Qaida and Islamic State affiliates. It noted that both groups had shown sustained interest in developing chemical and biological weapons over many years. However, they had so far failed to overcome the technical challenges associated with producing such weapons.

The report said instructions on developing chemical and biological agents had been widely circulated in online terrorist communities. It cited material allegedly published by ISIL’s English‑language Invade magazine in February, which included instructions on producing botulinum toxin and cyanide.

The Monitoring Team further noted that ISIL‑K had shown particular interest in ricin and had circulated instructions on developing the toxin over the past year.

The UNSC report underlined the persistent threat posed by terrorist organisations seeking to expand their capabilities. It emphasised the need for vigilance against attempts to weaponize chemical and biological agents, even though technical barriers remain.

Meanwhile, the Rouse Avenue Court has listed the National Investigation Agency’s chargesheet in the Red Fort blast case for cognisance on August 27. The NIA had filed a 7,500‑page chargesheet against 11 accused persons suspected to be behind the attack. The prosecution’s complaint runs into thousands of pages and cites more than 580 witnesses, reflecting the scale of the investigation.

The UNSC’s attribution of the Red Fort blast to AQIS represents a critical development in international counter‑terrorism assessments. It underscores the group’s growing regional footprint and the continuing threat posed by its decentralised cells.

ANI

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Two Killed, Six Injured In Mass Shooting At Toronto’s Salsa On St. Clair Festival

Two people were killed and six others injured in a mass shooting at Toronto’s annual Salsa on St. Clair street festival, sparking a major police operation and leaving the suspect or suspects at large.

The incident occurred near the intersection of St. Clair Avenue West and Arlington Avenue, where the popular Latino-themed festival was underway. Toronto Police confirmed that officers responded to reports of gunfire at around 8.12 pm local time, locating six individuals with gunshot wounds. Two of them were pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities initially issued an active shooter alert, urging residents to avoid the area. The warning was later lifted once officers secured the scene, but investigators confirmed that no arrests had been made and the suspect remained at large.

Police have not yet disclosed the identities of the victims, the condition of those injured, or any possible motive behind the attack. A heavy police presence continued in the area as forensic teams examined the crime scene and officers searched for those responsible.

Paramedics rushed to the festival grounds to treat the wounded, while Toronto Police maintained updates on social media, stating that the investigation was ongoing. Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his devastation at the incident, calling it “senseless violence” and extending condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected. His remarks underscored the shock felt across the province, given the rarity of such attacks in Toronto.

The Salsa on St. Clair festival, now in its 22nd edition, is a major cultural event in midtown Toronto, featuring live Latin music, dance performances, food stalls, and community activities. It typically attracts thousands of visitors to the bustling corridor lined with shops and restaurants.

The shooting has cast a shadow over what is usually a vibrant celebration of Latino culture, leaving residents and festival-goers shaken.

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is widely regarded as one of North America’s safest major urban centres. Fatal shootings, particularly those involving multiple victims in public spaces, are relatively rare. This incident has therefore raised serious concerns about public safety at large-scale community events and has prompted calls for stronger preventive measures.

Agencies

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US Senator Rick Scott Warns Pakistan Over Double Role After Sharif’s Tribute To Khamenei

US Senator Rick Scott has sharply criticised Pakistan’s role in the delicate diplomatic manoeuvring between Washington and Tehran, warning that Islamabad’s credibility is deeply compromised, Economic Times reported.

His remarks followed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s attendance at the funeral of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran. US Senator Rick Scott has issued a sharp warning to Pakistan over what he described as its “double role” in the ongoing US‑Iran diplomatic process.

His remarks followed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s attendance at the funeral of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, where Sharif paid tribute to the cleric and pledged continued collaboration between Pakistan and Iran.

We need to remember who Pakistan really is in the middle of all this.

We’re talking about a country where bin Laden hid out for a decade, where they selectively enforce lopsided blasphemy laws to persecute Christians, and where the Prime Minister just praised the genocidal mass… https://t.co/7SRIGGwyI1

— Rick Scott (@SenRickScott) July 6, 2026

Scott, in a post on X, questioned Islamabad’s credibility as a mediator between Washington and Tehran. He recalled Pakistan’s chequered past, including the decade‑long concealment of Osama bin Laden, the enforcement of blasphemy laws against minorities, and Sharif’s praise for Khamenei, whom Scott labelled a “genocidal mass murdering tyrant.”

He argued that Pakistan was no more qualified to mediate than Qatar, which he accused of harbouring Hamas. He warned that the United States would be watching Pakistan’s actions closely.

Sharif’s presence in Tehran was highly symbolic. During the funeral ceremony, he described Khamenei as “a great scholar and leader whom millions of Muslims will remember,” adding that Pakistan and Iran would “march together under all circumstances.” His words were seen as a reaffirmation of Islamabad’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with Tehran despite the tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and its confrontation with the United States and Israel.

The funeral procession itself was a major event in Tehran, drawing vast crowds dressed in black. Khamenei’s flag‑draped coffin, along with those of family members killed in an airstrike at the start of the conflict involving Israel and the United States, was carried through the capital.

Iranian authorities presented the ceremony as a demonstration of national unity. Anti‑US and anti‑Israel slogans were prominent, with mourners chanting against President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Effigies of Trump were displayed, and placards called for retaliation against perceived aggressors.

These developments come at a critical juncture. Efforts to revive negotiations between Washington and Tehran remain stalled, with talks expected to resume only after Khamenei’s burial. Key differences persist over Iran’s nuclear programme, the security of the Strait of Hormuz, and wider regional stability. 

The United States has expressed scepticism about Pakistan’s role in this process, particularly in light of Sharif’s overtures to Tehran, which appear to contradict Washington’s expectations of a neutral mediator.

Scott’s intervention underscores the growing unease in Washington about Pakistan’s positioning. His remarks highlight the broader distrust within the US political establishment regarding Islamabad’s reliability in sensitive diplomatic negotiations.

With Iran signalling defiance and its supporters rallying in the streets, the path to renewed dialogue looks fraught with obstacles. Pakistan’s attempt to balance its ties with both Washington and Tehran may prove increasingly untenable as scrutiny intensifies.

Agencies

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For The First Time, A Joint India–Japan Statement Has Explicitly Referred To Cross-Border Terrorism From Pakistan

India and Japan have issued a sharp and unequivocal condemnation of cross-border terrorism originating from Pakistan, marking a major diplomatic confrontation against regional terror networks. 

The joint statement was released following bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, underscoring a firm and unified stand against the rising threat of terrorism in South Asia.

The two nations condemned in the strongest terms the horrific terrorist attack on 22 April 2025 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which targeted tourists and claimed numerous lives.

They took note of the United Nations Security Council Monitoring Team Report that implicated The Resistance Front (TRF) in the attack. They also explicitly condemned the deadly car bombing near the Red Fort in Delhi on 10 November 2025, demanding that the perpetrators, organisers, and financiers of these reprehensible acts be brought to justice without delay.

Moving beyond rhetoric, both prime ministers called for urgent and concerted global actions against all UN-listed terrorist entities and their proxies.

They specifically named Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), Al Qaeda, and ISIS, demanding resolute measures to dismantle safe havens, disrupt terror financing networks, and halt the cross-border movement of terrorists.

This joint stance reflects a growing convergence between India and Japan on counter-terrorism cooperation.

The leaders also expressed serious concern over volatile situations in the East China Sea and the South China Sea. They voiced strong opposition to unilateral actions that endanger freedom of navigation and overflight, attempts to change the status quo by force, and the militarisation of disputed features. Reaffirming that maritime disputes must be resolved peacefully under international law, they underscored strict adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Anchoring their insistence on a rules-based order, the prime ministers demanded urgent multilateral reform. They reiterated their commitment to working closely with fellow G4 nations to accelerate United Nations Security Council reform by expanding both permanent and non-permanent member categories to reflect modern geopolitical realities.

They pledged to push for immediate text-based negotiations under the Inter-Governmental Negotiations framework to secure concrete outcomes within a fixed timeframe. In a reciprocal show of trust, India and Japan endorsed each other’s candidatures for permanent seats on a reformed council and confirmed mutual support for upcoming non-permanent seat bids.

The leaders also addressed acute security flashpoints across Asia and the Middle East. They expressed grave concerns over North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs, demanding complete denuclearisation and urging all UN member states to strictly enforce sanctions against arms transfers.

Regarding tensions in the Middle East, they highlighted the critical need to secure free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz to maintain stable energy supply chains. They called for the implementation of a comprehensive plan to rebuild Gaza alongside a guaranteed two-state solution. Additionally, they voiced support for a lasting peace in Ukraine rooted in the UN Charter.

This joint condemnation and wide-ranging strategic dialogue took place during Prime Minister Takaichi’s three-day official visit to India from 1 to 3 July at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi.

The visit included participation in the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, where both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest. 

Takaichi also took part in the India-Japan Business Forum alongside Prime Minister Modi, further strengthening economic and strategic ties between the two nations.

ANI

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Delhi Red Fort Blast: NIA Exposes AI Misuse And Radicalised Doctor Module In Al-Qaida Plot

The National Investigation Agency’s probe into the Red Fort car blast in Delhi has revealed disturbing details of how artificial intelligence platforms were misused for what investigators termed “terror engineering.”

The chargesheet, running into 7,500 pages and filed on 14 May, outlines the involvement of accused individuals linked to Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH), an offshoot of Al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), in fabricating and deploying improvised explosive devices with laboratory-like precision.

The blast, which occurred on 10 November last year near the Red Fort, killed 11 people and injured several others. According to the chargesheet, Jasir Bilal Wani emerged as the “in-house engineer” of the module.

He allegedly stayed at Al Falah University in Faridabad on multiple occasions during 2024–25 to provide technical support. The University itself came under scrutiny after it was found that three doctors employed there were allegedly involved in the conspiracy.

Jasir was introduced to Dr Umer un Nabi, the driver of the explosive-laden car, by Dr Adeel Ahmed Rather. Investigators found that Adeel supplied key IED ingredients, including powdered sugar and potassium nitrate in the form of NPK fertiliser, while Dr Umer conducted research on rocket-based IEDs and provided technical guidance.

Jasir reportedly turned to YouTube and ChatGPT to search for instructions such as “how to make a rocket and in what proportion should the mixture be,” highlighting the misuse of digital and AI platforms in terror plots.

Rocket IEDs were tested in the Qazigund forest in Anantnag district by Jasir, Dr Umer, Dr Muzammil Shakeel, and other co-accused. Remnants of these devices were later recovered by NIA teams during extensive field investigations. In another instance, the group tested a cylinder-based IED in the Youshmurg forest near Mattan, also in Anantnag. The remnants of these experiments were seized at the instance of Dr Adeel.

The chargesheet also reveals that Dr Umer provided Jasir with two drones, instructing him to enhance their flying range and payload capacity. The plan was to weaponise the drones by fitting them with explosives to target security installations in Kashmir and other parts of India.

In controlled simulations conducted by the NIA, Jasir demonstrated his ability to fabricate functional rocket IEDs using commercially available materials before a bomb disposal squad.

The forensic findings point to the chilling sophistication of the trigger mechanism used in the vehicle-borne IED. Between December 2023 and January 2024, Jasir allegedly ordered components through his Flipkart account, including a sensor-inductive proximity switch, a heat gun, a piezo plate, a remote-control relay-switch RF transmitter and receiver kit, a flameless rechargeable pocket lighter, a soldering kit, and an LED electronic kit. These were procured via cash-on-delivery, funded by Dr Umer, and later assembled into a trigger mechanism that was used to detonate the blast.

The explosive used in the attack was Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP), clandestinely manufactured after procuring constituent ingredients and conducting experiments to perfect the mixture. The NIA’s investigation exposed a wider “Jihadi Conspiracy” involving radicalised medical professionals who were inspired by AQIS and AGuH ideology.

Earlier, Srinagar police had already busted the so-called “doctor” or “white-collar” module linked to the blast, but the NIA’s forensic and scientific probe has now laid bare the scale of the conspiracy.

The findings underscore the growing threat posed by the misuse of AI platforms and commercially available technologies in terror plots. Officials described the accused’s approach as “almost laboratory-grade,” reflecting a dangerous blend of technical expertise, radicalisation, and exploitation of modern tools.

AQIS and its offshoots, including AGuH, remain designated terrorist organisations by the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the case highlights the evolving nature of terror engineering in India’s security landscape.

PTI

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Afghanistan: From Landlocked, Luck-Locked To An Important South Asian Influencer

by Shaumik Samar Ghosh

The contentious Durand Line which separates Afghanistan and Pakistan runs 2,640-kilometre, with the western end touching Iran and the eastern end to China.

Named after British diplomat Mortimer Durand, the line was drawn with an intent to measure the limit of the countries’ respective scope of influence and make a fair demarcation to facilitate diplomatic relations and trade.

Back then, Britain deemed Afghanistan as an autonomous state, but had control over its foreign affairs and diplomatic relations.

Both Afghanistan and Pakistan have cultural histories shaped by a number of civilizations from the east and also the west. Afghan culture and ethos comprise of Pashtun, Uzbek, Hazara, Uzbek, and other ethnic groups; whereas Pakistani culture has the Punjabi, Sindhi, Baloch & Pashtun traditions, rooted in Islamic practices.

In spite of being an independent state Afghanistan could never break out of the shackles of subordination until 2021, while Pakistan continues to remain caught in a vortex of quasi military dictatorship, indecisive politics and internal imbroglios.

The Afghan Jihad against former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) was a time when both Afghanistan and Pakistan had good relations, even though the former had a pro-USSR and anti-Pakistan government in Kabul.

Then came the US led attack on Afghanistan and the prolonged presence of foreign occupation forces which saw friends become foes, and seems that the same is happening even now. Another reason of Pakistan getting irked is Afghanistan’s new found alliances in South Asia, especially India.

For a landlocked country, Afghanistan has been unfortunate in limitless regards. After September 11, 2001, in attacks on New York City and Washington that left thousands dead, the terrorists were Al-Qaeda members, a militant Islamist network that was believed to have been supported by Afghanistan’s de facto rulers.

The Taliban could not trace and handover the leaders of al-Qaeda, especially Osama Bin Laden who was later traced in Pakistan. The United States then invaded Afghanistan to support the Northern Alliance in overthrowing the Taliban and to dislodge Al-Qaeda, but maybe it was looking for the right people in the wrong place. This could have been a mere pretext to capture Afghanistan. The Taliban was removed from power and a new government was set up.

Peace was still a distant dream as the new Afghan government struggled to bring stability to the country. Fighting continued between the NATO powers the Taliban, and civilian casualties were high. In February 2009, while Barack Obama was US president, it hiked the presence of troops in Afghanistan. 

In 2010 around 1,50,000 NATO troops were on the ground in Afghanistan, but the situation worsened as there were even higher casualties. This happened even in 1839, during the First Anglo-Afghan War, when British-led forces invaded Afghanistan and started a war with Afghan rulers, and two years later, the British were defeated.

The 1880 ‘Treaty of Gandamak’ did see Afghanistan giving control of various frontier areas to British ruled India, but it ended in a stalemate as a pro- British head could not be appointed in Kabul. After more than a decade Mortimer Durand was sent to Kabul to sign an agreement with the then supreme leader Amir Abdur Rahman Khan as an agreement of borders were mandatory for many reasons and the most important one was to keep the country afar from communist influence.

The political identity of Afghanistan has always been manipulated through indirect and clandestine formulations. This particular conflict of interest between the people of Afghanistan and foreign installed Afghan governments is the cause of mass resentment leading to armed resistance, a resistance that is always prepared for the worst.

Many who don’t want to live under clouds of mayhem and uncertainty are convinced by certain groups to move to Pakistan in the form of inflow of unarmed refugees, which also encourages drug and human trafficking. In recent times, the Afghan government has not accepted a number of border management proposals from Pakistan.

Bitten million times and shy a billion, Afghanistan continues to deal with serious distrust, blame games, a refugee crisis and cross border violations that is a result of centuries of tug of war. The international interest in Afghanistan stems from the fact that it is the inevitable ‘Boxing Ring of Asia” which is not just strategically, but also psychologically, culturally, geographically and politically the quintessential underdog who has been always carrying the bone with it.

With the world order headed towards multi-polarity, Afghanistan may face many more challenges because it was left behind when rest of the world was moving at a fast pace. For the country to grow it must to open to different philosophies, policies and sustainable trade models.

As it has seen with Pakistan that even though both practice the same religion—majorly the Sunni version or Deobandi form of Islam, it still won’t be enough to emerge as a robust independent power.

With rising trade tensions amongst major economies, not to forget the US- Iran War, South Asia remains at the centre of routing, sending and receiving problems, Afghanistan can play an important catalyst in the emerging new world order.

While China wants Afghanistan to join the former’s ambitious CPEC corridor program, it could be yet another cause of worry for Afghans as they may once more end up as proxy void of any equal say.

But it proved it can as many reports suggest that it is reducing its dependence on Pakistani corridors for access to other markets, and has been using more of the Chabahar port—a positive augmentation of its trade doctrine, backed by India.

At a diplomatic level, Afghanistan is evolving and experimenting with forging new relations. This becomes even more important for a country that does not have an Independence Day - as it was always a free nation on paper, but freedom eluded it for way too long.

Shaumik Samar Ghosh is a writer and keen political and geopolitical analyst

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