Fragmentation of the Global Fight Against Terrorism

The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 has highlighted the division in the global response to terrorism, particularly in relation to Pakistan's actions against India. While international condemnation was widespread, calls for restraint were equally prevalent, underscoring the fragmented nature of the global fight against terror.

International Reactions and Concerns

• U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice-President J.D. Vance, emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution and warned against regional conflict.
• Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov advocated for political and diplomatic solutions between India and Pakistan.
• The European Union showed reluctance to label the Pahalgam incident as a "terror attack," reflecting a shift away from zero tolerance towards terrorism.
• Some countries demanded proof of Pakistan’s involvement in terror activities, ignoring past events like the Pulwama and 26/11 attacks.

Shift in Global Terrorism Focus

• The global consensus post-9/11 to combat terrorism has deteriorated, now characterized by nationalistic perspectives on terrorism.
• Western countries focus on specific threats: Europe on right-wing extremism, and the U.S. on racially and ethnically motivated extremism (REMVE).
• Other nations, like Canada and China, have shown reluctance to take strong actions against threats perceived as internal or politically aligned.

Terrorism in India and International Dynamics

• India is uniquely positioned as a major victim of state-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan, which complicates international diplomatic responses.
• Despite India's efforts, the international community remains hesitant about nuclear escalation in South Asia, urging India to avoid aggressive measures.

Recent Incidents and Religious Implications

• The Pahalgam attack targeted tourists based on religion, highlighting the communal motivations behind such acts.
• The statement by U.S. Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, acknowledging the religious aspects of the attack is notable.

Challenges at the United Nations

• Pakistan, now a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (UNSC), has used its position to influence discussions and block actions against terrorists operating from its soil.
• Efforts by India to bring attention to these issues have been met with mixed responses due to geopolitical interests.

India's Strategic Response

• India remains steadfast in its attempt to hold Pakistan accountable, while facing diplomatic challenges at international forums like the UNSC.
• India aims to leverage its geopolitical strategies through strategic autonomy and multi-alignment policies.
• Continued efforts to address religiophobia against non-Abrahamic faiths on international platforms are crucial.

Conclusion

The global fight against terrorism is increasingly becoming a fragmented and nationalistic endeavor. India's role and responses are critical, as it navigates complex international dynamics to assert its position and ensure accountability for state-sponsored terrorism.