Inspired by Hamas attack on Israel, Pakistan-backed terror groups ramp up activities on LoC

Pakistan-backed terrorist groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed have become more aggressive along the India-Pakistan border following the Israel-Hamas conflict in West Asia. These groups are not known for fighting in association with a third country, but to assert their presence, they need to be active along the Line of Control (LoC), security officials told CNN-News18 on Tuesday.

The LeT and JeM have faced challenges due to a refugee crisis and attacks by Tehrik-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP) and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), leading to a loss of domestic grounds and funds. Intelligence agencies suggest that to establish themselves on par with groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, TTP, or TJP, they need to engage in significant actions at the LoC. An official told CNN-News18, “Drone activities have increased majorly in the last month and they are doing almost two to three sorties in a day. Since we don’t have a foolproof mechanism in place, it’s difficult to catch every drone.” Additionally, Pakistani Rangers are coming very close to the International Border and sending drones towards Amritsar. “Because this is done from very close to the IB, they come deep inside the village and weapons and drugs are delivered," an official said. The official added, “These drugs are for raising money and the weapons are given for terror activities and to local gangsters also.” Top intelligence sources are concerned that Lashkar and Jaish might attempt Hamas-style attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. There are more than 60 foreign terrorists waiting in Kashmir, and their exact locations are unknown. In recent months, terrorists along the border have relocated their launching pads in apprehension of a surgical strikes. These new locations remain hidden from Indian agencies.