Washington DC [US]: In response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Co-Chairs of the US-India Caucus, Ro Khanna and Rich McCormick, issued a joint statement calling for stronger intelligence cooperation between the United States and India.
In their statement, the lawmakers emphasized the need for joint counterterrorism operations targeting terror organizations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen.
“They urged the US Department of State to increase information-sharing platforms, joint operations, and real-time intelligence support. US and Indian intelligence agencies must strengthen and expand existing collaborative efforts to dismantle terrorist networks operating in the region,” the statement said.
“This includes increasing information-sharing platforms, joint operations, and real-time intelligence support to combat the recruitment, funding, and logistics capabilities of these groups,” it added.
The Co-Chairs stressed the importance of integrating counterterrorism strategies between the two nations:
“Both India and the US must work towards integrating their counterterrorism strategies to enable the rapid identification and disruption of terrorist cells, weapons caches, and smuggling routes. Leveraging advanced technologies and satellite surveillance can help uncover hidden training camps and other infrastructure used by these groups, helping prevent future attacks while ensuring regional stability.”
The statement called on the US to provide India with targeted counterterrorism assistance, including access to advanced tools and expertise:
“Considering the persistent threat posed by extremist groups operating in the region, the US should work to provide targeted support to Indian counterterrorism efforts. This includes technical expertise and logistical capabilities, such as intelligence analytics, satellite tools, and communications platforms, to enhance the effectiveness of Indian security forces on the ground. In addition, the US should assist in developing counterterrorism strategies that ensure Indian forces can neutralize terrorist threats, while aligning with international standards of engagement.”
In addition to military and intelligence cooperation, the statement highlighted the need for diplomatic engagement:
“It is critical that the US work not only to assist in dismantling terrorist networks but also support India and Pakistan as they work to maintain peace and avoid further escalation. We recognize the geopolitical complexities in the region, while emphasizing India’s longstanding struggles in addressing cross-border terrorism. We respect the careful judgement its leaders bring to these challenges and deem it critical to support both states in their efforts for civility.”
The lawmakers reiterated their commitment to standing with India:
“The United States must continue to stand with India in condemning and combatting terrorism to promote a stable, secure environment in the region that protects civilians, discourages further violence, and upholds the rule of law. It is crucial to keep diplomatic channels open to India and Pakistan so that they may work toward reducing hostilities and fostering a more secure environment. Our actions must be swift, targeted, and strategic to ensure the long-term security interests of both India and the international community.”
The statement also referenced The Resistance Front (TRF), the group that claimed responsibility for the attack:
“The group responsible for this attack, known as The Resistance Front (TRF), has been identified as being affiliated with extremist organizations operating within Pakistan’s borders, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen. These groups have been designated as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) by the State Department, and this latest attack comes amidst a growing wave of violence linked to such actors who threaten regional and international stability.”