External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday reiterated that India maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, particularly when it emanates from across the border in Pakistan. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a high-stakes debate on Operation Sindoor, Jaishankar also categorically denied reports of any phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then U.S. President Donald Trump during the period of military engagement.
“There was no call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump between April 22 and June 17,” Jaishankar said, putting to rest speculation that international pressure played a role during Operation Sindoor.
India had launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 as a direct military retaliation to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 people, primarily civilians.
The operation triggered a short but intense four-day military conflict with Pakistan, during which Islamabad unsuccessfully attempted drone and missile attacks targeting Indian territory.
The situation de-escalated only after the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan reached out to the Indian DGMO for a ceasefire understanding, indicating the failure of Pakistan’s aggressive posture.
Speaking on the government’s diplomatic efforts, Jaishankar emphasised that India has consistently taken the global lead in exposing Pakistan’s long-standing role in supporting terrorism.
“We told world leaders about our zero-tolerance stance on terrorism. We have the right to defend ourselves,” he said, underlining India’s resolve.
The External Affairs Minister highlighted that India’s campaign to diplomatically isolate Pakistan has been effective.
“New Delhi not only highlighted Islamabad’s troubling history but also succeeded in revealing its true face to the world,” Jaishankar told the Lok Sabha.
Jaishankar also made it clear that Operation Sindoor does not mark the end of India’s response to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.
“India’s response to terrorism emanating from across the border will not end with Operation Sindoor. We will take whatever action is necessary to protect our citizens and interests,” he said, reinforcing the government’s commitment to national security.
The EAM also confirmed that visa restrictions on Pakistani nationals will remain in place as part of India’s broader counter-terrorism strategy.
“These measures are part of our broader strategy to deal with the threat of terrorism,” Jaishankar added.
IANS
