National News: In a major breakthrough in global counterterrorism efforts, the United States has officially designated The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). TRF had claimed responsibility for the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025. This move is being hailed as a significant diplomatic victory for India and a strategic blow to Pakistan on the international stage.
US Shows Firm Resolve Against Terrorism
Announcing the decision, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the designation underlines America's unwavering commitment to global security, justice for terrorism victims, and eliminating threats like TRF. He emphasized that such organizations pose a serious danger to regional peace and must face strict global action.
India Welcomes the Move
India’s Ministry of External Affairs lauded the US step, stating, “We appreciate the designation of TRF as a terrorist organization by the US State Department. TRF is a front of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba and has been responsible for multiple terror incidents, including the heinous Pahalgam massacre.”
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar called the move a strong symbol of Indo-US cooperation in combating terrorism and reiterated India’s consistent policy of “zero tolerance towards terrorism.”
TRF: Its Origins and Pakistani Links
TRF was established in 2019 by Lashkar-e-Taiba soon after the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Backed by Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the ISI, TRF's objective has been to fuel unrest and spread separatist ideology in the Kashmir Valley.
The group is led by Sheikh Sajjad Gul—its founder and current commander—who has already been declared a terrorist by India under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). TRF uses social media platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp to recruit radicalized youth and promote a new model of “hybrid terrorism.”
Pahalgam Massacre: A Brutal Display of Terror
On April 22, 2025, TRF terrorists ruthlessly killed 26 innocent tourists in Pahalgam after confirming their identities. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, presenting comprehensive evidence to the United States to expose Pakistan’s involvement and rally international support against cross-border terrorism.
TRF, in a public statement, claimed responsibility for the massacre and tried to justify it as an act of protest against “demographic change” in the region. They accused the Indian government of facilitating settlement of non-Kashmiris through tourism and residency certificates.
What Lies Ahead?
With TRF now blacklisted by the United States, international monitoring will intensify. Global bodies like the UN Security Council (UNSC) and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) are expected to act more decisively, leading to asset freezes, travel bans, and disruption of TRF’s financial networks.
Major Setback for Pakistan
The US action marks a turning point in India’s diplomatic efforts to expose and isolate Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. It sets a precedent for other countries to follow suit, strengthening the global coalition against extremist outfits like TRF and increasing pressure on Pakistan to dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil.
