Islamabad: Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari made a startling appeal at the UN Headquarters in New York, urging a joint effort between Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) to combat terrorism. Speaking at a press briefing, Bhutto’s call for collaboration between the rival agencies marks a bold shift in rhetoric, aiming to address the scourge of extremism that has long plagued South Asia. His proposal comes amid heightened tensions following India’s Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam attack.
Acknowledging Past Mistakes
He highlighted the devastating impact of terrorism on both nations, noting Pakistan’s own losses, with over 80,000 deaths since 2001, and India’s suffering, exemplified by the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack that killed 26. Bhutto argued that mutual distrust has fueled violence, and only intelligence-sharing can dismantle terror networks operating across borders. His remarks signal an attempt to bridge decades of animosity, particularly over Kashmir.
A Vision for Cooperation
The proposal for ISI-RAW collaboration focuses on creating a joint task force to target terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, which exploit the India-Pakistan divide. Bhutto suggested a neutral platform under UN oversight to share intelligence on terror financing and cross-border movements. While acknowledging challenges, including India’s skepticism about ISI’s past actions, he emphasized that both agencies’ expertise could neutralize threats more effectively. This comes after India’s May 7, 2025, strikes on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, escalating regional tensions.
Challenges and Hope
Bhutto’s call faces steep hurdles, given the deep-seated mistrust between India and Pakistan. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has yet to respond, with analysts citing RAW’s reluctance to engage with an agency often accused of supporting militancy. Yet, Bhutto’s push for dialogue, backed by his party’s progressive stance, offers a glimmer of hope. As South Asia grapples with rising extremism, his UN address underscores the need for bold diplomacy. Whether this proposal sparks meaningful talks or remains a symbolic gesture, it challenges both nations to rethink their approach to a shared enemy.
