The United States has designated The Resistance Front (TRF), affiliated with Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO). TRF had claimed responsibility for the April 22, 2025, attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed. Later, amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, it denied any involvement. India had sent its delegations around the world, highlighting Pakistan's role in the Pahalgam terror attack. The inclusion of TRF in the FTO list is a major diplomatic success for India.
The U.S. State Department made this announcement on Thursday through a strong statement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, “This action reflects the Trump administration’s strong commitment to combating terrorism. The Pahalgam attack was the deadliest in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Designating TRF as an FTO fulfils President Donald Trump’s call for justice for this attack.”
What will this decision lead to?
Blow to Terror Networks: Designating TRF as an FTO will significantly weaken the core structure of terrorist organisations.
Funding Cut Off: TRF will no longer receive any financial assistance or resources from within the U.S. They will face financial sanctions, and any assets linked to them in the U.S. will be frozen or seized. This will severely affect their operations, including arms, training, and recruitment.
No Entry into the U.S.: Members and supporters of TRF will be completely banned from entering the United States.
No Support Allowed: American individuals and institutions will be prohibited from providing any kind of assistance to the designated organisation.
Strict Sanctions: The group will be banned from purchasing weapons, defence equipment, and dual-use items.
Increasing Pressure on Pakistan: This move will strengthen India's stance against Pakistan on international platforms like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). With TRF’s link to Lashkar-e-Taiba now exposed, Pakistan’s troubles are set to deepen.
