Why Pakistan will Escape FATF Grey-Listing

by Nilesh Kunwar

Dubious Claim

In his UNGA address last month, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asserted that "Had these terrorists (in Pakistan) not been encountered by us, they would have been roaming on the streets of New York and London and God knows, the Far East." He also attempted to portray Islamabad as a global “bulwark” against terrorism.

It appears that Sharif was well aware that his claims of waging a war against terror in all its forms and manifestations would find no takers. Why else would he have placed a cheering team in the gallery for repeatedly interrupting his uninspiring statements by its continuous applause in response to hand signals given by Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar?

Anti Grey-Listing Ploys

However, Sharif wouldn’t have been unduly upset as this message was for the international money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog, Financial Action Task Force (FATF). With its next Plenary and Working Group meetings scheduled from October 26 to 30th, Islamabad is (like always) busy putting up appearances and cleaning up its backyard to escape being ‘grey-listed’.

To impress FATF, Pakistan has recently increased the bounty for any information leading to the arrest of UN designated global terrorist Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar from PKR 2 million to PKR 7 million. It has also ordered the ‘snakes’ in its backyard to go into temporary hibernation thereby creating an illusion that Pakistan has no truck with terrorists.

Pakistan may have suffered the ignominy of being grey-listed by FATF for four years (2018-2022) but perturbed because it has mastered the art of eating the cake and having it too by playing the terror-victim card. And the icing on the cake is that Islamabad is currently in the good books of the very same extremely influential benefactor it had annoyed in 2018.

Readers would recollect President Trump’s 2018 curt New Year tweet accusing Pakistan of giving the US “nothing but lies and deceit,” and providing “safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan.” Pakistan was put in the Grey-List the same year couldn’t be a mere coincidence.

But the situation today has completely changed. As Sharif never tires of heaping praise on Trump, he considers the Pakistani Prime Minister to be a “terrific man.” And by acting as a faithful page as well as making sweet deals with Washington, Pakistan’s de facto ruler Field Marshal Asim Munir has become the US President’s “favourite field marshal.”

Washington exercises extraordinary influence over FATF member states- a fact endorsed by the 2020 revelation of the then Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s that Islamabad had approached Washington to help it exit the FATF Grey-list. And it’s no secret that US influence did help Pakistan in getting out of the Grey-list in 2022.

While it’s not yet clear whether Islamabad has hired lobbying firms for this purpose but given its past history of doing so during pre and post Operation Sindoor period ( when it spent a whopping $600,000 a month before Operation Sindoor), as revealed by mandatory disclosures by these firms, soliciting services for lobbying firms to influence US lawmakers in backing Pakistan’s bid to protect itself from FATF grey-listing wouldn’t come as a surprise.

Another reason why Islamabad’s is likely to escape Grey-listing is the FATF’s perfunctory approach to terrorism financing. An example- its official website mentions that “The FATF notes with grave concern and condemns the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam on 22 April 2025,” and accepts that “This, and other recent attacks, could not occur without money and the means to move funds between terrorist supporters.” However, by failing to name Pakistan despite irrefutable evidence of its involvement, FATF has only further emboldened Rawalpindi.

Repercussions For India

Thanks to a political and internal security crisis exacerbated by Field Munir’s over-obsession with using brute force to subdue dissent, Pakistan is on the brink, and if its harried population isn’t provided a suitable diversion, the situation can well take a very ugly turn.

So, in order to placate public anger and conceal his own army’s failure to restore normalcy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, Field Marshal Munir has conveniently made his people believe that Kabul and New Delhi are sponsoring TTP and armed Baloch groups respectively. And to live up to his "Allah has made me the guardian of this nation” claim, he has assured Pakistanis that the Pakistan army will not spare terrorists or their “facilitators”.

By dubbing armed groups of Baloch freedom fighters as Fitna-al-Hindustan (Pak's designate of rebel and separatist groups operating within Balochistan, alleging that they are proxies backed by India), 

Munir may have successfully exploited the significant anti-India sentiment in Pakistan. However, the people are now asking that if New Delhi is indeed Fitna-al-Hindustan’s “facilitator,” then why is the Pakistan army not targeting India?

Most importantly, Pakistanis would like to know that when Sharif claims that the Pakistani armed forces “silenced the enemy (India), repulsed its attack and taught it a lesson it shall never, ever forget” during Operation Sindoor / Bunyan-un-Marsoos, then why not teach it a similar lesson as punitive action for sponsoring armed Baloch groups?

India’s Response

If Pakistan army’s proxy war in J&K is currently at a low key, it’s just because of FATF’s Plenary and Working Group meetings scheduled later this month. Once it’s over, and Pakistan is not Grey-listed, one can expect a surge in Pakistan sponsored terrorist activities as being in a desperate situation, Pakistan’s ‘failed’ marshal has to do something across the Line of Control to save face. Therefore it would be puerile to place too much hope on FATF. This winter in J&K is likely to be hot.

By stating in his UNGA address that “our right to defend ourselves against terrorism will be exercised” and that “friendship and goodwill cannot co-exist with terrorism,” as well as the caveat that “it is for the perpetrator of terrorism to mend its ways,” Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has sent out an unambiguous message to Pakistan.

New Delhi therefore needs to explore using a wide range of effective deterrents against any misadventure orchestrated by the Pakistan army and its proxies. These actions should not only be restricted to retributory kinetic operations but also include economic, political and diplomatic measures to enhance its impact, because the harsh reality is that come what may, Rawalpindi will never mend its ways.

Nilesh Kunwar is a retired Indian Army Officer who has served in Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, Nagaland and Manipur. He is a keen ‘Kashmir-Watcher,’ and after retirement is pursuing his favourite hobby of writing for newspapers, journals and think-tanks. Views expressed above are the author's own

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'A Terrorist Country Is Asking Me That Question': EAM Jaishankar's Fiery Reply To Pakistani Journalist At UN Briefing In New York

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a sharp and unequivocal response to a Pakistani journalist who attempted to interrupt a media briefing at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

Addressing reporters alongside Liberia's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, on behalf of the Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers, Jaishankar was speaking during the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.

The event had been explicitly outlined as a remarks-only interaction beforehand. However, towards the close of the briefing, the Pakistani reporter interjected and questioned when the Indian government would stop sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan.

Jaishankar firmly dismissed the heckling remark, stating, "A terrorist country is asking me that question. Come on."

India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, immediately stepped in to reinforce the minister's statement, informing the journalist that he had received his answer loud and clear.

This intense exchange occurred shortly after an Indian journalist confronted Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif upon his arrival at the UN building, asking him when Pakistan would cease harbouring terrorists.

Jaishankar is currently heading the Indian delegation in New York during the UNGA High-Level Week, where he is scheduled to address the High-Level Session on Saturday following a series of bilateral and plurilateral meetings.

India has consistently asserted its position against cross-border terrorism, calling on Islamabad to execute verified and credible actions to dismantle terrorist networks operating from its soil.

New Delhi has maintained that its military action under Operation Sindoor, launched following the 22 April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack which resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 civilians, was a legitimate exercise of its right to self-defence. Operation Sindoor specifically targeted terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The severe nature of the Pahalgam attack received widespread international acknowledgment, featuring prominently in official outcome documents across multiple global platforms, including a UN Security Council press statement issued in April 2025.

The Resistance Front (TRF), an outfit that India identifies as a proxy for the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, was formally designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the United States on 18 July 2025.

India has maintained TRF's direct involvement in the Pahalgam tragedy, a link that was also highlighted in the 36th monitoring report of the UN Security Council's 1267 Sanctions Committee released in July last year.

Furthermore, Pakistan's history of being placed on the Financial Action Task Force grey list—specifically during its extended monitoring period between June 2018 and October 2022—required it to disrupt terror financing channels and prosecute individuals linked to militant networks.

India continues to highlight that sustained international pressure and FATF scrutiny forced Pakistan to take enforced action against prominent terrorists, including key perpetrators associated with the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.

ANI

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Pakistan’s Hollow Bid To Evade FATF Grey List By Naming Masood Azhar In Most Wanted Roster

Pakistan’s Federal Investigative Agency has released its updated Red Book of most wanted terrorists for 2026, prominently featuring Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Masood Azhar.

The bounty on Azhar has been increased by ₹70 Lakh, up from the earlier ₹50 Lakh announced in 2021. This move is widely viewed as a smokescreen designed to appease the Financial Action Task Force ahead of its October plenary, as Pakistan attempts to avoid being placed back on the grey list.

In 2021, Pakistan began claiming that Azhar had fled to Afghanistan, even as it placed a ₹50 Lakh reward on him. Five years later, the bounty has been raised, but Indian intelligence assessments over the past six months confirm that Azhar is actively hiding in Nawabshah city in Sindh province. He remains the mastermind behind several terror strikes in India, including the Pulwama attack.

The FIA’s updated Red Book also includes 19 terrorists linked to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. These individuals were involved in assisting, financing, or managing boats for the attackers. Seventeen of them are listed with photographs and specific roles, but Pakistan has covertly removed the photographs, Lashkar-e-Taiba affiliations, and operational details of two terrorists, retaining only their names.

Muhammad Khan from Turbat, who provided the boat Al-Hussaini, and Abdul Rehman from Bahawalnagar, had their full roles and photos published in the 2021 list, but these details have now been excised.

The roster names 11 LeT operatives responsible for facilitating the sea voyage of the attackers aboard Al-Hussaini and Al-Fauz. These include Muhammad Amjad Khan from Multan, Shahid Gafoor from Bahawalpur, Mohammad Usman from Sahiwal, Ateeq-ur-Rehman from Lahore, Riaz Ahmad from Hafizabad, Muhammad Mushtaq from Gujranwala, Muhammad Naeem from Dera Ghazi Khan, Abdul Shakoor from Karachi, Muhammad Sabir Salfi from Multan, Muhammad Usman from Lodhran, and Shakeel Ahmed from Rahim Yar Khan.

Six terrorists who provided financial backing for the 26/11 attacks are also listed. Muhammad Iftikhar Ali from Faisalabad spent ₹0.70 Lakh to set up VOIP connections enabling communication between attackers and handlers. Mohammad Zia from Rawalpindi contributed ₹0.80 Lakh. Mohammad Abbas Nasir from Khanewal gave ₹2.53 Lakh. Javed Iqbal from Kasur supplied ₹1.86 Lakh. Mukhtar Ahmad from Mandi Bahauddin donated ₹2.98 Lakh. Ahmed Saeed from Battagram provided ₹21 Lakh for the operation. According to the FIA, all 17 terrorists involved in the 26/11 attacks have been absconding for 18 years, though Indian intelligence sources confirm they remain inside Pakistan. Their inclusion in the list is seen as eyewash to misdirect international scrutiny.

Over the past five years, the total count of most wanted terrorists in Pakistan has surged by 35%, rising from 1,330 in 2021 to 1,804 in the latest release. This increase underscores the scale of Pakistan’s internal and cross-border terror infrastructure.

The Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters in Bahawalpur, known as Markaz Subhan Allah, was among the hardest hit in India’s precision strikes under Operation Sindoor. Located 100 km inside Pakistan, the facility was destroyed by the Indian Armed Forces. Operational since 2015, Markaz Subhan Allah served as the main centre for JeM training and indoctrination, and functioned as its operational headquarters. It was directly associated with terrorist planning, including the Pulwama attack of February 14, 2019.

The Markaz housed the residences of Masood Azhar, de facto JeM Chief Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, Maulana Ammar, and other family members. Azhar frequently addressed gatherings from this facility, delivering anti-India rhetoric and urging youth to join jihad. JeM conducted regular arms, physical, and religious training for its cadres at this centre, reinforcing its role as a hub of militant activity.

ANI

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FATF: Underground Banking And Digital Hawala Fuel Global Money Laundering Networks

The Financial Action Task Force has released a new report underscoring the growing role of underground banking, hawala and other similar service providers in facilitating illicit finance.

The report highlights the vulnerability of these systems to money laundering and terrorist financing. In some cases, more than ₹4,500 crores were laundered through underground banking and hawala-based schemes within just a few months.

Criminal misuse of underground banking and HOSSPs is described as a widespread global phenomenon. More than 80% of reporting jurisdictions identified these systems among the principal professional money laundering channels or techniques.

While hawala and similar systems can serve legitimate purposes, in most countries the provision of underground banking or unregistered HOSSP services is a criminal offence. This contravenes FATF Standards, which recommend that countries require these entities to be licensed or registered.

The report explains how underground banking and hawala networks have evolved. They are increasingly associated with highly professionalised “money laundering as a service,” where laundering functions are outsourced to specialists. This has led to the emergence of professional money laundering as a commercialised business model.

These systems are now organised as business-like structures. Sophisticated, scalable, and commercially operated cross-border professional money laundering networks have emerged. They offer lower commission rates and can move large volumes of value rapidly across borders for organised crime groups.

The FATF warns of increasing involvement of lawyers, accountants, auditors, notaries, corporate formation agents, financial consultants, real estate agents, and casinos and junket operators in facilitating such schemes.

Integration with the formal financial sector is also highlighted. Professional money launderers increasingly use bank accounts, fintech platforms, payment service providers, virtual IBANs, prepaid cards, and virtual asset wallets as entry and exit points in laundering cycles. These exploit regulatory blind spots.

Nearly 70% of respondents identified the integration of new technologies, with a growing shift towards “digital hawala.”

This includes operators using encrypted messaging applications such as WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal. Customers initiate transfers through bank transfers, mobile wallets, fintech applications or instant payment systems. Operators use virtual assets, including stablecoins, to settle balances between themselves. AI-based tools and purpose-built “Hawala apps” have also been identified.

These developments accelerate the efficiency of professional money laundering services. They make money easier to hide and strengthen the geographic reach and resilience of underground banking- and HOSSP-based schemes.

The criminal use of these systems is no longer limited to cash-based crime such as drug trafficking or smuggling. Criminals now launder proceeds from fraud, cyber-enabled crime, terrorist financing, illegal gaming and gambling, and transnational organised crime.

Operational case studies show how professional money laundering networks increasingly rely on underground banking systems. Examples include moving proceeds from large-scale cross-border drug trafficking or using digital hawala networks to finance members of a terrorist organisation.

FATF President Giles Thomson warned that the emergence of sophisticated, commercially operated cross-border money laundering networks is a serious risk multiplier. He urged public and private partners to put good practices identified in the report into action to detect and disrupt this infrastructure.

The report draws on evidence from more than 50 jurisdictions across the FATF Global Network and partners. It provides a global picture of how these systems operate and identifies good practices to help jurisdictions and the private sector strengthen their ability to detect, investigate, prosecute and disrupt professional money laundering infrastructure.

The findings highlight the importance of combining targeted prevention and enforcement measures with proportionate financial inclusion efforts.

These must be supported by legal clarity, enhanced detection capabilities, public-private feedback loops, domestic co-ordination and international co-operation.

ANI

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India Outlines UNSC Agenda On Terror Financing, Maritime Security And AI Governance

India has formally launched its campaign for election as a non‑permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2028‑29 term, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar outlining the country’s priorities during an address at the UN Headquarters in New York.

He stated that India would focus on countering terror financing, enhancing maritime security, and promoting responsible governance of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence.

EAM Jaishankar emphasised that terrorism remains one of the world’s most pressing challenges. He argued that efforts so far have largely targeted its symptoms, but lasting results require dismantling the financial networks that sustain terrorist organisations. India, he said, is committed to constricting this resource base and will encourage objective and evidence‑based proposals for listing terrorist groups under the UN framework.

He noted that terrorism continues to undermine global peace and prosperity, and stressed that India’s approach would be to ensure that the international community concentrates on cutting off the financial lifelines of extremist organisations. This, he added, is essential to achieving meaningful progress in counter‑terrorism efforts.

Highlighting maritime security as another key priority, Jaishankar said recent developments have reinforced the importance of safeguarding the uninterrupted flow of global maritime commerce in accordance with international law.

He pointed out that India has consistently contributed to maritime security through search and rescue missions, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, capacity building, and the sharing of best practices.

He explained that India’s International Fusion Centre has anchored a cooperative network covering the entire Indian Ocean region, enabling coordinated responses to maritime challenges. He underlined that nations with requisite capabilities must cooperate to combat piracy and ensure adherence to international law, as maritime commerce is vital to global supply chains and economic stability.

Jaishankar also drew attention to the safety of seafarers, noting that recent developments have highlighted the need for enhanced search and rescue operations and humanitarian assistance. He reiterated that India has long been active in these areas and would continue to ensure that maritime security receives the attention it deserves at the Security Council.

Turning to emerging technologies, Jaishankar said Artificial Intelligence represents both opportunities and risks, requiring a human‑centric approach to governance.

He introduced India’s MANAV framework for AI, which stands for Moral and ethical systems, Accountable governance, National sovereignty, Accessible and inclusive, and Valid and legitimate systems. This framework, he explained, reflects India’s vision of balancing innovation with responsibility.

He stressed that technology is profoundly impacting daily life, and AI is at the cutting edge of this transformation. India’s approach, he said, is rooted in its traditions and capabilities, aiming to ensure that AI is used inclusively and ethically. He highlighted India’s commitment to bridging the global digital divide, noting that the recent AI Impact Summit in India was based on the vision of “AI for All.”

Jaishankar warned of the risks posed by the misuse of AI, including threats to international peace and security, and said India is determined to counter such dangers. He reaffirmed that India’s campaign for the UNSC seat is built on a vision of contributing to global stability, resilience, and responsible governance in the face of evolving challenges.

India’s agenda, as outlined by Jaishankar, reflects a comprehensive approach that integrates counter‑terrorism, maritime security, and technological governance. It underscores New Delhi’s ambition to play a proactive role in shaping international security and stability during its prospective tenure at the Security Council.

ANI

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FATF Warns of Rising Terrorist Financing Risks Through Digital Platforms

The Financial Action Task Force has issued a strong warning about the rising misuse of social media, instant messaging applications and streaming platforms by terrorist organisations to finance their operations.

The watchdog highlighted that these digital technologies are increasingly being exploited for propaganda, fundraising and sophisticated financial activities, underscoring the urgent need for stronger global cooperation to counter the threat.

In its latest report, FATF explained that terrorists are using fraudulent humanitarian crowdfunding campaigns, creator-economy features, virtual asset fundraising and other integrated financial tools available on these platforms.

Over the past decade, social media, messaging and streaming platforms have transformed from simple communication channels into complex ecosystems with embedded payment systems, virtual assets, creator monetisation and cross-border financial services. This evolution has created new opportunities for terrorist financing.

The report, titled Detecting and disrupting terrorist financing activity through social media, instant messaging applications and streaming platforms (SMSPs), identified several emerging typologies. 

These include the misuse of live-streaming and tipping features, fundraising through virtual assets using rotating wallets and QR codes, coded language and disappearing content to evade detection, and the exploitation of commercial entities to conceal terrorist financing activities.

FATF stressed that the integration of AI-driven content, encrypted communications, decentralised finance, virtual assets and embedded payment tools has made terrorist financing schemes more complex.

This requires enhanced cooperation between governments, financial institutions and technology companies to effectively disrupt these networks.

The watchdog noted that fewer than 30 per cent of reporting jurisdictions currently assess terrorist financing risks associated with social media, messaging and streaming platforms in their national risk assessments. This gap highlights the urgent need for countries to strengthen their understanding of the evolving threat and incorporate these risks into their frameworks.

FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo emphasised that terrorist financing has increasingly shifted to digital platforms, significantly expanding extremist groups’ ability to reach global audiences. She warned that the ability to reach billions of people and magnify the impact of attacks has never been greater, and no single jurisdiction or authority can address this threat alone. She called for close cooperation to prevent criminals from misusing these platforms to cause harm worldwide.

The organisation has worked with major technology companies and specialised think tanks to better understand these vulnerabilities and develop recommendations for countries.

Among its recommendations are stronger public-private partnerships, enhanced information sharing, improved inter-agency coordination, greater understanding of monetisation features, stronger risk assessments and better integration of financial and digital intelligence.

FATF clarified that while social media, messaging and streaming platforms are not directly covered under its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards, certain financial activities facilitated through these platforms may already fall within the scope of existing FATF regulations.

This means that countries must adapt their frameworks to address the evolving digital threat landscape.

The report builds on FATF’s 2025 Comprehensive Update on Terrorist Financing Risks and represents a continuation of its efforts to stay ahead of the rapidly changing methods used by terrorist groups.

By exposing these vulnerabilities and urging stronger cooperation, FATF aims to ensure that the international community is better prepared to counter the misuse of digital platforms for financing terrorism.

ANI

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'Major Win For India': Vivek Aggarwal Elected Vice President of FATF In Landmark Achievement For India

Senior Indian bureaucrat Vivek Aggarwal has been elected Vice President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), marking a significant diplomatic and strategic milestone for India.

The Ministry of External Affairs described the announcement as a “major win for India,” underlining the country’s growing influence in global efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

The development was announced by the MEA in a post on X, which highlighted Aggarwal’s appointment as a reflection of India’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. The ministry emphasised that this leadership role reinforces India’s determination to dismantle illicit financial systems and strengthen global security frameworks.

Aggarwal’s extensive experience in financial intelligence and anti-money laundering was noted by the MEA. He previously headed India’s FATF delegation and served as Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND). His expertise is expected to advance FATF’s mandate of safeguarding financial integrity and countering threats to the international financial system.

The FATF, an intergovernmental body, develops global standards and policies to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and other threats to international financial stability. Aggarwal’s election comes at a time when India is pushing for stronger international action against cross-border financial crimes and terror financing networks.

The Ministry of Culture also welcomed the announcement, stating that it underscores the confidence and credibility India enjoys among more than 200 jurisdictions. The ministry noted that India’s proactive role in shaping global responses to emerging challenges such as digital payments and virtual assets has been recognised through this appointment.

Aggarwal, a 1994-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, currently serves as Secretary in the Ministry of Culture. His career spans over three decades, during which he has held key positions in both Union and state governments, covering finance, agriculture, urban development, infrastructure, and public policy.

Before assuming charge of the Culture Ministry in April 2025, Aggarwal served as Additional Secretary in the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance. In that role, he headed the FIU-IND and led India’s delegation to FATF, overseeing matters related to anti-money laundering, economic security, GST, and financial intelligence.

His earlier assignments include serving as Additional Secretary and Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, where he spearheaded flagship initiatives such as PM-KISAN, Digital Agriculture, and the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund. These roles demonstrated his ability to manage complex policy frameworks and deliver large-scale national programmes.

Aggarwal’s election to the FATF leadership is expected to further strengthen India’s engagement with the watchdog and enhance its contribution to global efforts aimed at safeguarding financial systems from illicit activities.

It also positions India more prominently in shaping international policy on financial integrity, counter-terror financing, and emerging risks in the digital economy.

This achievement reflects India’s rising stature in global governance and its commitment to advancing collective security against terrorism and financial crimes. It also highlights the trust India has built internationally through consistent advocacy for stronger mechanisms to disrupt terror financing channels and regulate illicit financial flows.

ANI

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Lest You Forget Munir, Remember What Happened To Your Bases: Munir’s False Flag Claim On 26/11 And Pulwama Sparks Outrage

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, has once again provoked India with incendiary remarks, a year after the humiliating setback his forces suffered during Operation Sindoor.

In a fresh outburst, Munir dismissed the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the Pulwama suicide bombing as “false flag operations,” attempting to shift blame onto New Delhi while ignoring Pakistan’s own record of sponsoring cross-border terrorism.

A year after India’s calibrated military response in May 2025, which destroyed multiple Pakistani terror camps and crippled airbases, Munir’s rhetoric appears aimed at reviving a narrative of victimhood.

His statement comes at a time when Pakistan continues to face international scrutiny for its role in harbouring militant groups, with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and Western governments repeatedly pressing Islamabad to curb terror financing. By branding the most infamous terror strikes on Indian soil as staged events, Munir has reignited anger in India and drawn ridicule from analysts who see his remarks as desperate propaganda.

Munir’s comments were delivered in the context of Pakistan’s ongoing attempts to reframe the Indo-Pak conflict of 2025. During that confrontation, India struck 11 Pakistani airfields, destroyed 13 aircraft including a high-value airborne platform, and neutralised nine terror camps deep inside Pakistani territory.

Despite Islamabad’s claims of shooting down Indian fighters, independent assessments and Indian briefings confirmed that Pakistan’s military infrastructure suffered severe damage. Munir’s refusal to acknowledge these losses underscores the credibility gap in Pakistan’s official narrative.

The invocation of 26/11 and Pulwama is particularly provocative. The 2008 Mumbai attacks, carried out by Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives trained in Pakistan, killed 166 civilians and remain one of the most documented terror strikes globally.

Similarly, the 2019 Pulwama bombing, in which 40 CRPF personnel were martyred, was claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammed, another Pakistan-based group. By dismissing these atrocities as false flags, Munir risks further alienating Pakistan from the international community, which has long recognised the role of Pakistani soil in nurturing such organisations.

Observers note that Munir’s remarks are not merely rhetorical but part of a broader strategy to deflect domestic criticism. Pakistan’s military establishment has faced growing discontent at home, with voices such as former officer Adil Raja accusing the leadership of double standards and propaganda.

Munir’s attempt to provoke India may be aimed at consolidating internal support by projecting defiance against New Delhi, even as Pakistan grapples with economic crisis, political instability, and declining credibility abroad.

Indian analysts have dismissed Munir’s claims as baseless and inflammatory. They argue that such statements only reinforce India’s position that Pakistan remains a “terror epicentre,” as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described it last year.

The Indian armed forces, buoyed by the success of Operation Sindoor, continue to emphasise their doctrine of precision strikes and strategic clarity, warning that every terrorist and their backers will be tracked and punished. Munir’s provocation, therefore, is unlikely to alter India’s stance but may instead strengthen its resolve.

The timing of Munir’s remarks also coincides with Pakistan’s attempts to seek external support, particularly from China, which had backed Islamabad during the 2025 conflict. Yet even Beijing’s diplomatic cover cannot mask the embarrassment caused by Pakistan’s military failures. Munir’s rhetoric, far from projecting strength, risks exposing Pakistan’s reliance on propaganda rather than substantive engagement.

Asim Munir’s latest provocation reflects both denial and desperation. By questioning well-documented terror attacks and ignoring the lessons of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan’s military leadership appears intent on rewriting history. For India, the episode serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and narrative dominance, ensuring that Pakistan’s attempts at distortion do not gain traction internationally.

Agencies

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Pakistan Used Lobbying Firms To Get U.S. Govt’s Help To Keep It Out of FATF Grey List

Disclosures under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) have exposed Pakistan's strategic use of Washington-based lobbying firms to secure American support against potential re-listing on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.

These revelations come amid heightened international scrutiny of Islamabad's record on terror financing, particularly following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025. Pakistan, which exited the grey list in October 2022 after years of monitoring, now faces renewed pressure at an upcoming FATF plenary expected next month.

The FATF grey list subjects nations to enhanced scrutiny for deficiencies in combating money laundering and terrorist financing, imposing barriers to international loans, investments, and banking transactions.

Pakistan's history with the list is chequered: it was first added in 2008, removed in 2015, re-added in 2018, and exited only after addressing action plans in 2022. Critics argue that despite these exits, core institutional failures persist, allowing illicit flows linked to terrorism to continue unabated.

A key FARA filing highlights Javelin Advisors LLC, registered in April 2025 to represent Pakistan under a consulting agreement dated 24 April—just two days after the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians, mostly Hindu tourists, near the scenic town in Jammu and Kashmir.

The firm committed to communicating Islamabad's positions on regional issues, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and Pakistan-India relations, to the US executive branch, Congress, and public. This timing suggests a rapid escalation in diplomatic efforts post-attack, amid India's accusations of Pakistani involvement via proxies like The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Another disclosure reveals the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington contracted Ervin Graves Strategy Group LLC, effective 1 October 2025, for intensive lobbying to avert FATF grey-listing. The firm focused on assuring US stakeholders of Pakistan's compliance progress since 2022, emphasising political commitment and readiness for bilateral information exchanges on residual FATF items. 

Documents indicate Islamabad sought "procedural fairness" and credited past US support, expressing confidence in Washington's backing for the June 2025 plenary—though scrutiny has intensified into 2026.

The Pahalgam attack, claimed initially by TRF before a retraction, prompted India's Operation Sindoor in May 2025 and NIA charges in December against Pakistan-based groups and individuals, tracing the plot to ISI directives.

Fifteen locals allegedly facilitated the militants, who targeted tourists indiscriminately, killing a Christian visitor and a Muslim operator too. This incident has bolstered calls, led by New Delhi, to reimpose FATF measures, with evidence of non-prosecution of UN-designated terrorists and stalled reforms.

Counter-terrorism experts contend that Pakistan's lobbying masks deeper shortcomings, as Islamabad has repeatedly misled global bodies without enacting lasting institutional changes against terror financing.

Despite claims of "significant progress" post-2022, failures in pursuing senior UN-listed terror leaders persist, a key unmet FATF criterion. The grey list's economic sting—evident in Pakistan's prior stints totalling over 3,500 days—underscores the high stakes, as relapse could cripple its fragile economy reliant on aid.

India plans to leverage the next FATF plenary to highlight Pakistan's slippage, opposing World Bank funding and pushing for grey-listing based on post-Pahalgam evidence.

US policymakers, lobbied heavily by Pakistani agents, face a dilemma: supporting Islamabad risks alienating New Delhi amid rising Indo-Pacific tensions. FARA mandates such disclosures for transparency, yet Pakistan's campaigns reveal a pattern of external influence to evade accountability on terrorism's financial lifelines.

As the FATF evaluates Pakistan, the world watches whether lobbying triumphs over evidence of ongoing terror support. Islamabad's assurances of reform ring hollow against its track record, where grey-list removals have not curbed proxy warfare financing. With global pressure mounting, failure to act decisively could invite blacklist escalation, further isolating Pakistan economically and diplomatically.

Based On Business Today Report

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India Reaffirms Ties Commitment In EAM Jaishankar's Bahrain National Day Greetings

India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, has extended warm greetings to Bahrain on its National Day, underscoring New Delhi's steadfast commitment to bolstering bilateral ties.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar conveyed his best wishes to Bahraini Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, the government, and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

He stated: "Warm greetings to FM Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, the Government & people of the Kingdom of Bahrain on their National Day. Reaffirm commitment to strengthening our long-standing partnership." This message arrives precisely one month after Jaishankar's telephone conversation with Al Zayani on 16 November.

During that call, the two ministers explored avenues to deepen the multifaceted India-Bahrain relationship. They also exchanged perspectives on pressing regional and global developments. Jaishankar had then posted: "Good to speak with FM Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani of Bahrain over phone. Discussed ways to further deepen our longstanding multifaceted partnership. Also exchanged views on current regional and global developments."

The rapport between India and Bahrain rests on a foundation of close and friendly relations, nurtured through consistent high-level dialogues. Trade and investment flows have expanded steadily, while cooperation spans critical domains such as energy security, defence collaboration, and people-to-people exchanges.

A notable recent milestone occurred earlier in November when Al Zayani visited India. He co-chaired the Fifth India-Bahrain High Joint Commission alongside Jaishankar, marking a pivotal forum for bilateral review and forward planning.

The commission deliberated on progress towards establishing a Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment. Discussions also advanced the initiation of negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), poised to unlock new avenues for economic synergy.

Beyond economics, the two nations issued a robust joint condemnation of terrorism in all its manifestations. They reaffirmed their resolve to counter terrorism, including cross-border variants, highlighting aligned security priorities amid a volatile geopolitical landscape.

This shared stance on security reflects deeper defence ties that have evolved over years. India and Bahrain have pursued joint military exercises and defence dialogues, fostering interoperability and mutual capabilities in the Gulf region.

Energy cooperation forms another pillar, with Bahrain's role as an oil producer complementing India's voracious import needs. Indian firms have invested in Bahrain's energy sector, while reciprocal opportunities in refining and petrochemicals have gained traction.

People-to-people links remain vibrant, bolstered by a large Indian expatriate community in Bahrain—estimated at over 300,000 strong. This diaspora drives remittances, cultural exchanges, and soft power projection for India in the Gulf.

High-level engagements have intensified under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. His 2019 visit to Bahrain, the first by an Indian PM in 17 years, elevated ties to a strategic partnership, with pledges for enhanced counter-terrorism and maritime security cooperation.

The November High Joint Commission built on this momentum, reviewing achievements in health, education, and renewable energy. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the trajectory and outlined ambitious targets for the coming years.

Regionally, India-Bahrain ties gain added salience amid West Asian flux. Bahrain's participation in the Abraham Accords and its hosting of the US Navy's Fifth Fleet align with India's pursuit of a rules-based order and freedom of navigation in the Arabian Sea.

Jaishankar's National Day message thus serves as a timely reaffirmation, signalling continuity amid global uncertainties. It positions India as a reliable partner for Bahrain, especially as Manama navigates economic diversification under its Vision 2030 blueprint.

Prospects for defence collaboration appear particularly promising. Recent talks have touched on potential joint ventures in maritime patrol, cybersecurity, and training exchanges, leveraging India's indigenous defence manufacturing push under 'Make in India'.

Economically, the proposed CEPA could double bilateral trade, currently hovering around $1.5 billion annually, by targeting sectors like IT, pharmaceuticals, and logistics. The Joint Working Group will iron out tariff barriers and investment protections.

Terrorism's condemnation underscores a proactive security architecture. Both nations back multilateral forums like the UN and FATF, while bilateral intelligence-sharing has intensified to pre-empt threats from non-state actors.

As Bahrain marks its National Day—commemorating independence from British protection in 1971 and the ruling Al Khalifa family's ascension in 1783—India's gesture reinforces a partnership forged in mutual respect. This relationship exemplifies India's broader West Asia strategy: pragmatic, multifaceted, and forward-looking.

Looking ahead, sustained momentum could see elevated defence pacts, energy deals, and cultural initiatives. Jaishankar's outreach not only celebrates shared history but charts a course for resilient collaboration in an era of strategic flux.

Based On ANI Report

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PM Modi, Italy's Deputy PM Tajani Review Progress On Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, convened in New Delhi to discuss and review progress on the Italy-India Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029.

The meeting, held on Wednesday, underscored the deepening ties and ongoing cooperation between the two nations across multiple sectors.

Tajani, who is on a three-day official visit to India, is accompanied by a substantial business delegation. His visit emphasises Italy’s intent to broaden and strengthen economic collaboration with India.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction over the proactive measures taken by their governments to implement key initiatives outlined in the Strategic Action Plan.

Prime Minister Modi took to X to share insights about the discussion, expressing his delight at meeting Tajani. Modi highlighted the comprehensive scope of the Strategic Action Plan, which includes critical areas like trade, investment, research, innovation, defence, space exploration, connectivity, counter-terrorism, education, and people-to-people relations.

He reaffirmed that the growing friendship between India and Italy continues to bring significant benefits not only to their own populations but also to the global community.

On the security and strategic front, Tajani had separate meetings with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. These engagements helped to further elevate the strategic dialogue between India and Italy.

Minister Jaishankar detailed on X that the review covered the plan’s advancements across politics, defence, technology, innovation, maritime affairs, mobility, space, trade, and investment.

Jaishankar underscored that the partnership is firmly rooted in shared democratic values and a mutual dedication to global peace and stability. He expressed gratitude for Italy’s solidarity following the recent terror attack in New Delhi, illustrating the close ties in counter-terrorism cooperation between the two countries.

The discussions also built upon previous initiatives, particularly the joint efforts to curb terror financing announced during Modi’s meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the G20 Summit. 

Jaishankar reiterated that Italy remains one of India’s closest partners in counterterrorism, including coordination within the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

Beyond bilateral security and economic concerns, both sides exchanged perspectives on significant regional and global issues. These included dynamics in West Asia and ongoing developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, reflecting the growing geopolitical dimension of India-Italy relations.

Looking ahead to economic collaboration, Tajani is scheduled to meet India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Mumbai, where discussions will focus on deepening trade and investment links. 

Minister Jaishankar praised Tajani’s proactive role in advancing the economic roadmap within the 2025-2029 Action Plan, signalling Italy’s leadership in furthering this strategic partnership.

This high-level engagement reinforces the comprehensive and multifaceted nature of the India-Italy relationship, encompassing strategic, economic, security, and diplomatic cooperation as both countries work towards shared goals on the regional and global stage.

Based On ANI Report

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US Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker Arrives In India To Strengthen Strategic And Economic Ties

Allison Hooker, the United States Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, has arrived in India to bolster the bilateral partnership between New Delhi and Washington. This visit aligns with US President Donald Trump's focus on enhancing the US-India relationship and advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region, according to an official statement from the US Embassy in India.

The US Embassy took to X to announce the visit, emphasising the mission’s commitment to pressing forward on key issues central to both economic and national security. It highlighted that Under Secretary Hooker’s trip will focus on advancing priorities set out by President Trump for a robust strategic partnership, deepening economic and commercial cooperation, and promoting shared goals in the Indo-Pacific.

Under Secretary Hooker’s agenda in India includes strengthening ties in emerging technologies, with particular attention to artificial intelligence and space exploration. These fields are seen as critical areas for expanding US-India collaboration, reflecting the growing importance of technology-driven innovation in bilateral relations.

In New Delhi, Under Secretary Hooker is scheduled for meetings with senior Indian officials. A significant part of her discussions will include regional security challenges and economic cooperation. These engagements will also feature the Foreign Office Consultations alongside India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, further cementing diplomatic channels.

The visit also includes a stop in Bangalore, where Under Secretary Hooker will meet with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and leaders from India's vibrant space, energy, and technology sectors. The intent is to promote innovation through US-India research partnerships and to explore expanded opportunities for cooperation in these cutting-edge domains.

This visit follows recent joint condemnations by India and the US against terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism. On 6 December, both nations reiterated their commitment to multilateral cooperation aimed at combating terrorism globally, particularly via platforms such as the United Nations, the Quad, and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

The two countries convened the 21st Meeting of the India-USA Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism (CT) and the 7th Designations Dialogue on 3 December.

They called for additional designations of affiliates of ISIS, al-Qa'ida, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), including their supporters and financiers, under the UN 1267 sanctions regime.

This move seeks to ensure global asset freezes, travel bans, and arms embargoes against these groups.

India and the US also strongly condemned recent terrorist attacks, including the April 22 attack in Pahalgam and the heinous terror incident near the Red Fort in New Delhi on 10 November. Both countries stressed the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for such acts of terrorism.

These conversations underline the critical role of bilateral cooperation in counterterrorism and highlight the broad and deep nature of the India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, according to a release by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Under Secretary Hooker's visit thus far represents a significant step towards consolidating shared interests in security, technology, and economic growth, reflecting an ever-strengthening partnership between India and the United States.

Based On ANI Report

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PM Modi Meets Meloni, Launches Joint Initiative To Counter Terror Financing

India and Italy have launched a significant strategic partnership through the India-Italy Joint Initiative to Counter Financing of Terrorism, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg.

This initiative represents a cooperative framework dedicated to dismantling terror networks, blocking illicit financial flows, and enhancing coordination through global platforms like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Global Counter Terrorism Forum (GCTF).​

The initiative aims to deepen bilateral cooperation in countering terrorism by realigning efforts on intelligence sharing, capacity building, and rigorous enforcement to choke off financial resources that sustain terrorism.

Both nations emphasise strengthening multilateral engagement and coordination to ensure more effective tracking and disruption of terror financing routes, targeting actors that facilitate money laundering and funding of terror groups.​

During their discussions, the leaders also reviewed the broader India-Italy Strategic Partnership, expressing satisfaction with progress under the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29. This includes advancements in trade, investment, defence, security, space, science, technology, education, and people-to-people ties.

The partnership has bolstered industrial cooperation and business engagements, complementing the security agenda.​

Italian Prime Minister Meloni conveyed strong solidarity with India following a recent terror incident in Delhi, reaffirming Italy’s commitment to a joint fight against terrorism’s scourge. She also reiterated Italy’s support for an India-European Union Free Trade Agreement and welcomed India’s hosting of the AI Impact Summit in 2026, signalling expanding cooperation beyond security matters.​

This initiative reflects a timely and necessary effort to reinforce humanity’s collective fight against terrorism and its financial enablers. It symbolises a growing strategic partnership between India and Italy, by raising the efficiency of counter-terrorism financing mechanisms, enhancing information exchange, and supporting global peace and security frameworks.​​

The India-Italy Joint Initiative to Counter Financing of Terrorism is designed to systematically dismantle terror networks through concerted international cooperation, disrupt illicit financial flows funding terrorist activities, and harness coordination mechanisms via FATF and GCTF. The agreement marks a key milestone in multilateral security collaboration, alongside ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties across diverse sectors.​

Agencies

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FATF Warns Pakistan: Exit from Grey List Does Not Guarantee Immunity from Terror Financing Risks

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has issued a clear warning to Pakistan, stating that its removal from the grey list in October 2022 does not grant it immunity from the persistent risks of money laundering and terrorist financing.

The statement came during the FATF’s fourth plenary session in Paris, presided over by Elisa de Anda Madrazo of Mexico.

Madrazo emphasised that delisted countries must remain vigilant and continue strengthening their anti-terror financing mechanisms. She noted that any jurisdiction previously monitored remains vulnerable to criminal exploitation unless robust preventive frameworks are sustained.

Despite being delisted, Pakistan continues to face scrutiny from the Asia Pacific Group (APG), which oversees its follow-up implementation of FATF recommendations. As Pakistan is not an FATF member, this follow-up process ensures continued monitoring of compliance with international standards on financial transparency and counter‑terrorism financing.

FATF’s caution comes amid intelligence indicating that Pakistan-based terror organisations such as Jaish‑e‑Mohammad (JeM) are using digital wallets to conceal transactions and fund militant operations. Such developments underline the gaps that remain in Pakistan’s financial oversight systems, particularly in monitoring cross‑border or virtual financial flows.

India’s National Risk Assessment 2022 continues to classify Pakistan as a high-risk source for terror financing. The report underscores the enduring threats stemming from Pakistan’s state-linked institutions, including the National Development Complex, allegedly involved in proliferation financing across the region.

A recent FATF study, in collaboration with India and other member states, provided comprehensive insights into modern terror financing networks. It highlighted the evolving use of fintech channels and cryptocurrencies by non-state actors and state-supported groups to bypass traditional banking control mechanisms.

In addressing the global media, Madrazo reaffirmed FATF’s commitment to enhancing standards, assessments, and enforcement strategies to curb terrorist and proliferation financing. She stressed that the organisation’s goal is to ensure coordinated international action that deprives terrorist groups and organised criminals of access to global financial systems.

During the Paris plenary, delegates representing over 200 jurisdictions and observer organisations discussed future frameworks to strengthen operational compliance against illicit financial activities. The meeting also concluded the first two mutual evaluations under FATF’s new round of risk-based assessments, covering Belgium and Malaysia.

In addition, the plenary announced the removal of Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Nigeria, and South Africa from the list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring after fulfilling their respective Action Plans. This move signals FATF’s readiness to reward tangible and sustained progress in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing implementation.

FATF’s renewed warning to Pakistan reinforces the ongoing international concern regarding the country’s systemic vulnerabilities to terror financing. The message remains clear: compliance is not a one-time achievement but a long-term commitment to ensuring transparent and accountable financial governance.

Based On ANI Report

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Win For India: EU ‘Pulls Up’ Pak On Pahalgam Terror Attack As Sharif Tempts Trump With Minerals

India and the European Union held their 15th Counterterrorism Dialogue earlier this week, and the discussions carried particular weight in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

The meeting underscored a growing convergence between New Delhi and Brussels on addressing terrorism in South Asia, particularly the nexus of cross-border groups and financial networks that sustain them.

Both sides strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack, in which innocents were targeted in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising that such assaults undermine not only regional stability but also the broader global struggle against extremism.

During the dialogue, Indian interlocutors laid out in detail the linkages between Pakistan-based networks and the attack, highlighting the role of The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy outfit that has often been described as a front organisation of Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Indian officials were clear in stressing that TRF enjoys state-backed sanctuaries and logistical support across the border, drawing on both local recruitment and external financing channels. India also drew attention to the persistent challenge of terrorism financing, underlining that curbing these flows remains central to meaningful counterterrorism cooperation.

The European Union delegation echoed India’s concerns and expressed solidarity against what it identified as persistent and destabilising cross-border terrorism.

The EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting India in its fight, with officials emphasising that Europe itself has suffered from terrorism and thus recognises the need to address both the operational and ideological foundations of extremism.

In this context, the EU’s decision to “pull up” Pakistan — effectively urging it to rein in the groups operating under its patronage and to honour its global counterterrorism obligations — was seen as a diplomatic win for India.

The dialogue also included granular discussions on mechanisms to enhance information sharing, tighten oversight of suspicious banking transactions, and improve technological cooperation against encrypted communication and online radicalisation networks.

Against this backdrop of consensus, the political manoeuvring in Islamabad revealed an uneasy contradiction. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while facing international scrutiny over terror safe havens, simultaneously attempted to project Pakistan’s economic potential by courting former U.S. President Donald Trump with offers of access to the country’s lucrative mineral resources.

These overtures — positioned as an incentive for renewed American engagement — appeared poorly timed when juxtaposed with fresh allegations of Pakistani complicity in supporting cross-border groups that conducted the Pahalgam attack.

The strategy highlighted Islamabad’s bid to shift the discourse towards economic partnerships while deflecting attention from terror-financing concerns repeatedly raised by both India and its Western partners.

For New Delhi, the outcome of the dialogue was both symbolic and strategic. Symbolically, the open alignment of the EU’s position with India’s narrative on Pakistan-sponsored terrorism further legitimised India’s long-standing claims on the international stage.

Strategically, it strengthened the momentum for a collaborative global approach that looks beyond episodic condemnations to institution-level convergence against terror financing, propaganda, and logistics.

The EU’s backing also improves the diplomatic space for India to push for tighter scrutiny of Pakistan in forums like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), ensuring counterterrorism obligations remain tied to tangible compliance benchmarks.

In essence, the 15th Counterterrorism Dialogue served as a platform where India’s counterterrorism diplomacy yielded dividends, delivering both solidarity and actionable commitments from Europe while exposing Islamabad’s attempt to balance international criticism with economic opportunism.

Together, the developments reinforced India’s effort to isolate Pakistan on the terrorism issue while deepening cooperation with influential global actors.

Based On TOI Video Report

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US Terror Tag For TRF Boosts India’s FATF Case Against Pakistan After China’s UNSC Block

The United States’ recent decision to designate The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough for India’s efforts against Pakistan-based terror outfits.

Coming in the wake of the April 22, 2025 Pahalgam attack—which killed 26 civilians and was initially claimed by the TRF—this move is expected to strengthen India’s international campaign to hold Pakistan accountable for cross-border terrorism, particularly ahead of decisive discussions at the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

After the Pahalgam attack, India sought to have TRF named in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) statements, underscoring its links to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a UN-designated terror group. 

However, leveraging its position in the UNSC, China endorsed Pakistan’s effort to prevent the naming of TRF in official communiqués. This manoeuvre allowed Pakistan to avoid increased international scrutiny, despite TRF’s acknowledged direct link to the attack and its documented role as a LeT proxy.

The US State Department’s formal terror designation for TRF stands in clear defiance of Pakistan’s lobbying and China’s protective stance in the UNSC. The move freezes TRF assets globally, restricts its access to funding, and exposes its members to international sanctions.

Importantly, it validates India’s longstanding claim that TRF is merely a front for the banned LeT and that Pakistan continues to facilitate or shelter such proxies.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar welcomed the US decision as both a “timely and important step” and a “strong affirmation” of India-US counter-terrorism cooperation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated the administration’s resolve to pursue justice for the Pahalgam victims and underscored Washington’s commitment to confronting state-sponsored terror threats to regional and global security.

The timing of the US move is particularly advantageous for India as it prepares for the upcoming FATF plenary in August 2025. FATF is the global watchdog for anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) protocols.

India is expected to leverage the US designation—and the direct evidence linking TRF’s financing and operations to Pakistan—to advocate for Pakistan’s re-entry into the FATF “grey list” of jurisdictions under increased monitoring for terror financing risk.

Previously, Pakistan managed to exit the grey list by demonstrating partial compliance with FATF’s recommendations. However, the TRF’s documented activity, recent cross-border financing evidence, and continued links to Pakistan-based LeT leaders provide India with new material to question Islamabad’s commitment to international CTF frameworks.

Indian authorities are gathering further evidence to demonstrate ongoing non-compliance with specific FATF requirements—particularly the failure to freeze assets and prosecute leaders of UN-sanctioned groups like LeT and its proxies.

The US designation not only undermines Pakistan and China’s attempt to shield TRF at the UNSC but also bolsters India’s position in international fora. By aligning with the US and securing a formal terror tag for TRF, India can now press the UNSC and FATF to take tangible action—ranging from asset freezes and travel bans to increased diplomatic and economic pressure on states that facilitate terror financing.

Moreover, the move reflects growing India-US operational synergy in counter-terrorism, reinforcing their shared commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism in South Asia and globally. Going forward, India’s success in building a wider coalition for the isolation of Pakistan-based proxy groups could set a precedent for international action against state-sponsored and proxy terrorism, especially in regions marked by geopolitical rivalry and competing narratives.

The US terror tag for TRF not only exposes Pakistan’s use of proxy outfits but also materially strengthens India’s case at FATF while diminishing China’s ability to protect such groups on the global stage. This development is poised to drive further international consensus on countering cross-border terrorism and enhancing mechanisms to ensure accountability for states abetting terror networks.

Based On A News18 Report

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WHAT You Should Know About The Resistance Front, Tagged By US As Terror Group

The Resistance Front (TRF) is a terrorist group that has been designated a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) by the United States following its responsibility for the deadly Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025, which killed 26 tourists. The move underscores renewed US-India cooperation on counterterrorism in response to increasing cross-border terrorism in the region.

Origins And Structure

TRF emerged in October 2019, a few months after the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, announcing its formation over encrypted social media platforms. While it positions itself as an "indigenous resistance group," multiple intelligence assessments—including India’s Ministry of Home Affairs and the South Asia Terrorism Portal (SATP)—identify TRF as a shadow or proxy organisation for the banned, Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), one of South Asia’s most notorious UN-designated terror outfits.

TRF’s command structure draws heavily from LeT leadership, and its operational and logistical strategies exhibit similar sophistication. Sajjad Gul is identified as the commander of TRF.

Modus Operandi And Activities

TRF is distinguished by its prolific use of digital and encrypted communications for propaganda, recruitment, and coordination of attacks. It has sought local Kashmiri resonance by emphasising "indigenous resistance" and actively avoids overt Islamist imagery in its messaging, diverging from traditional LeT rhetoric to appeal to broader local grievances.

Besides direct terror attacks, TRF employees threats against civilians, targets Kashmiri Pandits, migrant workers, and security personnel, and employs modern tactics including drone-based weapon drops and the use of improvised explosive devices.

Continuity With LeT And Wider Network

The group is not only linked to LeT but also coordinates with other terrorist outfits in the region—such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen, and the People’s Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF). It operates as part of the United Jihad Council, an "umbrella group" of Pakistan-backed terrorist organisations.

Major Attacks

April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack: 26 tourists killed, the deadliest terror incident against civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

Attacks in Ganderbal (October 2024), Reasi (June 2024), and Srinagar (February 2020), targeting both civilians and security forces.

Following the Pahalgam massacre, the US took the unprecedented step of identifying TRF as a threat not only regionally but globally, binding severe legal and financial penalties to anyone aiding the group. India had previously banned TRF under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in January 2023, and has consistently reported TRF’s activities to international bodies, characterising it as a deliberate front to shield LeT from international scrutiny, especially amid pressures from bodies such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

Pakistani Denial

Despite evidence—including the involvement of Pakistani nationals—Pakistan has publicly denied supporting or funding terrorists in Kashmir.

Summary

TRF exemplifies the evolution of terrorist proxies in South Asia: localising conflict narratives, masking foreign sponsorship, and leveraging technology for recruitment and operations, all while serving as a strategic front for Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. Its US designation as an international terror group signals a coordinated global clampdown on cross-border terrorism and the organisations that enable it.

Based On NDTV Report

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