Surgical Strike updates: Mumbai, Ambala on high alert; Australia says Pakistan must act against terror groups

RSS issues statement on Tuesday’s air strike

In a statement posted on Facebook, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) said, “The entire nation was agitated and angry in the wake of terror attack by “Jaish-e-Mohammed” in Pulwama. Today, the Indian Air Force demolished ‘Jaish-e-Mohammed’s” Pakistan-based ‘base-camps’ by precision air strikes. We congratulate the Government of India and the Indian Air Force for exactly translating the feelings and anger of millions of Indians. These air strikes were carried out without causing any harm and damage to the Pakistani Army and civilians as well, which is in tune with the Bharatiya culture.”

Modi to review airstrike in high-level meeting shortly

CNN-News18 reported that Narendra Modi will chair a meeting with intelligence chiefs and Air chief Marshal BS Dhanoa. NSA Ajit Doval will update Modi on the latest developments.

Amit Shah recalls Modi’s 2014 promise of ‘safe and secure India’

Speaking in Ghazipur, BJP chief Amit Shah said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised a safe and secure India in 2014. First, there was a surgical strike to answer the terrorism in Uri, and now, an aerial strike against terrorism.”

“After the Pulwama attack, the countrymen demanded that such action be taken that the enemy would think ten times to repeat such incident. Today, the air force has eliminated the air strikes on the terrorists hidden in the PoK,” he said.

Pakistan Army violates ceasefire along the LoC in Nowshera, Akhnoor 

ANI reported that the Pakistan Army violated ceasefire along the Line of Control in Nowshera, and Akhnoor sectors in Jammu and Kashmir. According to CNN-News18, Pakistan has violated truce five times on Tuesday.

Mumbai, Ambala on high alert

NDTV reported that the Ambala air base and Mumbai naval base have been put on high alert. Meanwhile, the forces are maintaining a strict vigil at Wagah Border.

Today an important day, says Modi 

Following the airstrikes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is visiting Delhi’s ISKCON temple, said, “God’s powers are always with us to save the Earth from the enemies of mankind. This is the message we are trying to send to the evil spirits.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Delhi's ISKCON temple: Manavta ke dushmano se dharti ko bachane ke liye prabhu ki shakti humare saath hamesha rehti hai. Yahi sandesh hum poori pramaanikta ke saath dusht aatmayon, asuro ko dene ka prayaas kar rahe hain. pic.twitter.com/wNzyZPi6Cc

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

IAF paid ‘real tribute’ to CRPF soldiers killed in Pulwama attack, says BJP’s Ram Madhav

Speaking to ANI, BJP general-secretary Ram Madhav said, “After Pulwama attack, the nation was mourning for 12 days and on the 13th day our valiant air force paid the real tribute to the martyred soldiers by destroying terror training camps deep inside Pakistan territory.”

Ram Madhav, BJP: Country is in safe hands, it's will power of PM that has led to the action today. We had political leadership in PM Modi which decided this time to act. We acted in a responsible manner, protected India's interest & ensured we didn't violate international norms. pic.twitter.com/uJks1ZALDv

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

All-party meeting underway at MEA

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is chairing an all-party meeting at the Ministry of External Affairs.

Delhi: Visuals from the all-party meeting called by EAM Sushma Swaraj at Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan. pic.twitter.com/9FnQ59bFsQ

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

Jaitley briefs Kovind, Venkaiah Naidu over airstrikes
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley gave a detailed briefing of operation to President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu. _CNN-News1_8 reported that it was discussed at the meeting that Tuesday’s strike was not a revenge attack over Pulwama but rather a strike to protect India’s sovereignity.

#NewsAlert -- Inside track of @arunjaitley's briefing to President and V-P | @payalmehta100 with more details #IndiaStrikesBack pic.twitter.com/b8tEjbvgow

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 26, 2019

Amarinder Singh holds high-level meeting in Chandigarh

Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh held a high-level meeting in Chandigarh with state minister Manpreet Badal and senior officials in the wake of the strikes on JeM terror camps.

Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh holds a high-level meeting with state minister Manpreet Badal and senior officials in the wake of the Indian Air Force's (IAF) strikes on JeM terror camps in Balakot. pic.twitter.com/aSfD8T2f4u

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

Pakistan says will take international media to area of strikes

To rebuke Indian “propaganda”, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that the Imran Khan government will take international media to the area of strikes. “Helicopters are being readied. Right now, the weather is bad. (The helicopters) will fly when weather permits,’ he was quoted as saying by ANI.

Amarinder Singh says Punjab put border districts on high alert

“Punjab has put its border districts on high alert in the wake of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) strikes across the Line of Control, undertaken by India as a retaliatory measure in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack,” a statement said by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh’s office.

Exercise restraint, avoid action which would endanger peace: Australia tells India, Pakistan

Australian foreign affairs minister Marise Payne said, “The Australian government is concerned about relations between India and Pakistan following the horrific terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 14 February, which Australia has condemned… Pakistan must take urgent and meaningful action against terrorist groups in its territory, including Jaish-e-Mohammed which has claimed responsibility for the 14 February bombing, and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

“Pakistan must do everything possible to implement its own proscription of Jaish-e-Mohammed. It can no longer allow extremist groups the legal and physical space to operate from its territory. These steps would make a substantial contribution to easing tensions and resolving the underlying causes of conflict.

“Australia urges both sides to exercise restraint, avoid any action which would endanger peace and security in the region and engage in dialogue to ensure that these issues are resolved peacefully”

Govt sources say six bombs were dropped by Mirage 2000s

Quoting government sources, ANI reported that a total of six bombs were dropped on Pakistan based terrorist camps by the Indian Air Force Mirage 2000s.

The key JeM operatives who were targets of Tuesday’s airstrikes

According to ANI, Maulana Ammar, Maulana Talha Saif, Ibrahim Azhar, and Mufti Azhar Khan Kashmiri were among the key JeM targets in the airstrikes.

Key Jaish e Mohammed operatives targeted in today’s air strikes: Maulana Ammar(in pic 1, associated with Afghanistan and Kashmir ops) and Maulana Talha Saif(pic 2), brother of Maulana Masood Azhar and head of preparation wing pic.twitter.com/rkEyCqvMJg

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

Key Jaish e Mohammed terrorists targeted in today’s air strikes: Mufti Azhar Khan Kashmiri, head of Kashmir operations(pic 1) and Ibrahim Azhar(pic 2), the elder brother of Masood Azhar who was also involved in the IC-814 hijacking pic.twitter.com/IUv1njNygA

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

Pakistani villagers say one person wounded in Indian air strike

Pakistani villagers in the area where Indian jets struck what officials in New Delhi said was a militant training camp said they heard four loud bangs in the early hours of Tuesday but reported only one person wounded by bomb shards.

“We saw trees fallen down and one house damaged and four craters where the bombs had fallen,” said Mohammad Ajmal, a 25-year-old who visited the site.

Pakistani forces will never allow forces to venture that deep into territory, says Shah Mahmood Qureshi

At the briefing, Shah Mahmood Qureshi said, “Pakistan Army, Air Force will never allow enemy forces to venture that deep into territory. We were prepared…Pakistan Air Force was airborne and we were ready for all eventualities. It was a multi-dimensional intrusion attempt. They saw our alert air force and turned back.”

“After the Pulwama attack, we had said in a briefing that the Modi government will carry out some misadventure ahead of (Lok Sabha) elections. Bashing Pakistan is the easiest way to win over the extreme Right,” he said.

Pakistan govt forms parliamentary committee to take all parties into confidence

At a press conference, Pakistani foreign affairs minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said, “A parliamentary committee has been constituted in which the foreign minister, defense Minister, finance minister will be included so that all parties should be taken into confidence.”

Kejriwal postpones his plan to launch indefinite hunger strike

AAP supremo and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal had earlier planned to sit on indefinite hunger strike from 1 March to garner support for his demand of full statehood for Delhi.

In view of prevailing Indo Pak situation, I am postponing my upwas for full statehood of Delhi. We all stand as one nation today.

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 26, 2019

Will hoist Pakistan flag in Delhi, says Shahbaz Sharif who sheltered JeM and LeT

After Indian Air Force bombed Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps, Pakistani leader Shahbaz Sharif, brother of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was quoted by Geo TV as saying that “Pakistan’s flag will fly in Delhi.” The statement from the Pakistani leader shows how the successive governments have been sheltering terrorists to be used against India for proxy war.

In fact, there have been instances to indicate that Pakistani leaders appreciate terrorists operating from its soil against India. Former Punjab governor Salman Taseer had claimed that Sharif brothers are close to terrorists, including Masood Azhar. The Wikileaks file on Shahbaz Sharif quoted Taseer as saying: “The Punjab government has done nothing to arrest Qari Saif Ullah Akhtar of Harkat Jihad al Islami; Maulana Masood Azhar of Jaiseh-e-Muhammad; Maulana Ludianvi of Sipah-e-Sahaba, or Hafiz Muhammad Saeed Azhar of Lashkar-e-Taiba — despite outstanding warrants for their detention.”

Now, this clearly shows why Shahbaz is so angry. He and his brother have been flirting with most-wanted terrorists in Pakistan, who are being used as hired guns to target India. The bombing of JeM camps has angered younger Sharif, who all along supported terrorist outfits.

Everyone was sleeping unprepared when IAF pounded terrorist camp, say sources

Everyone at the camp was sleeping and Pakistani defence establishment had no clue that the attack was coming so deep into their country because they had expected a surgical strike on camps in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir near the Line of Control, said the sources who are close to the government. 

Fighter and other aircraft took off from several air bases in Western and Central commands at about the same time, leaving Pakistani defence officials confused as to where they were heading, the sources said. A small group of aircraft broke away from the swarm and headed to Balakot where “the sleeping terrorists were sitting ducks for the Indian bombing,” said one source. 

PTI

5-star Balakot camp was sitting duck target for IAF, 350 terrorists killed while sleeping: sources

Hundreds of Fidayeen and their trainers were shifted from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir to a five-star, resort style camp in a hilltop forest in Balakot after the Pulwama attack, providing Indian forces with “a sitting duck target” when they carried out an air strike early Tuesday, killing up to 350 terrorists, sources said. 

India received intelligence that JeM had shifted many in-training terrorists and hardcore operatives, along with their trainers, to the Balakot camp, which has facilities for 500 to 700 people, and even has a swimming pool along with cooks and cleaners. PTI

Air strike on Pakistan increases Modi’s chance to return, say analysts

The air strike on terror camps in Pakistan is a positive for the markets as it illustrates a “decisiveness” in foreign policy and increases the chances of Narendra Modi to retain power after the forthcoming polls, say analysts.

The air strike on terror camps in Pakistan is a positive for the markets as it illustrates a “decisiveness” in foreign policy and increases the chances of Narendra Modi to retain power after the forthcoming polls, say analysts. – PTI

Gujarat on high alert 

Gujarat police on Tuesday issued a “high alert” across the state followingIndia’s preemptive strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed’s (JeM) biggest terror camp in Pakistan. Gujarat’s Director General of Police Shivanand Jha cancelled a conference on crime-related issues scheduled at the Police Bhavan in Gandhinagar and asked all officers who reached here to attend it to return to their respective headquarters in view of the alert sounded in the state.

“In view of the action on terrorists across the border by IAF, all establishments have been put on high alert,” a message from DGP’s office to the district headquarters said. “The conference scheduled for today here at this office stands cancelled and all officials are requested to return to their headquarters,” it added.

Diplomatic Corps in India back IAF’s action, say New Delhi acted in responsibly

Dean of Diplomatic Corps, Hans Castellanos said, “We are satisfied that Indian government has had such a rapid response in informing Heads of Missions. The information is that they did not affect any civilian or any Pakistan military installation, that it was a direct attack due to credible intelligence received.”

Pakistan will respond to ‘uncalled for Indian agression’ at time and place of its choosing 

Pakistan’s ruling party Pakistan Tehreef-e-Insaf tweeted that Pakistan will retaliate to the “Indian aggression” at a time and place of its choosing. 

Forum concluded that India has committed uncalled for aggression to which Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing.
To take the nation on board, the govt has decided to requisition joint session of the Parliament.

— PTI (@PTIofficial) February 26, 2019

India’s story on air strikes fictitous, created for domostic consumption in poll year, says Pakistan’s ruling party

Imran Khan chaired a special meeting of the National Security Committee at his office today. The forum “strongly rejected Indian claim of targeting an alleged terrorist camp near Balakot and the claim of heavy casualties. Once again Indian government has resorted to a self serving, reckless and fictitious claim.”

A Pakistani statement further said, “This action has been done for domestic consumption being in election environment,putting regional peace and stability at grave risk.The claimed area of strike is open for the world to see the facts on ground.For this domestic&international media is being taken to the impact site.”

Imran Khan to take media to attack site to expose ‘India’s lies’; will address media at 3.30 pm

In his first response after the Indian air strikes, Imran Khan accused India of lying and said that he will take the international media to the site of attack to expose New Delhi. Imran will also give a detailed statement in press conference at 3.30 pm.

Flags of US, UK painted on floor of JeM terrorist camp, show latest images 

Intelligence sources have revealed that flags of USA, UK and Israel were painted on staircases inside the Jaish-e-Mohammed facility destroyed by Indian Air Force jets in Balakot. The visuals were tweeted by ANI. 

Intel Sources: Flags of USA, UK and Israel painted on staircases seen in Jaish e Mohammed facility destroyed by Indian Air Force jets in Balakot pic.twitter.com/266CEI0hGR

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

China calls for ‘restraint’ after India’s air strikes

China has reacted on the Indian Air Force’s strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed’s biggest training camp in Pakistan. Beijing came out with a short statement asking both nations to exercise restraint, PTI reported.

Balakot aside, IAF targetted 5 terrorist camps in Kangar in KPK province 

According to top government sources, the Indian Air Force independently struck five terror camps at Kangar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

India had shared intel inputs on location of Balakot terrorist camp with Pakistan in 2016

According to government sources, they had shared details of Balakot terror training camp head Maulana Yousuf Azhar with Pakistan in 2006. Yousuf alias Salim alias Ghouri, brother in law of JeM chief Masood Azhar, was the brain behind hijacking of IC-814.

Pakistani president takes note of surgical srikes, says Pakistan can defend itself

Pakistani president has reacted to the Indian Air Force strike in Pakistan. In a tweet, Arif Alvi said that it would be a mistake to underestimate Pakistan’s capability to defend itself. 

Pakistan's message to the world. We want peace but nobody should be under any illusion about our capability to defend ourselves. pic.twitter.com/ejXVsaBclA

— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) February 26, 2019

India claims IAF strike in Pakistan an intelligence-based counter terror strike, says over 300 terrorists eliminated

“This was an intelligence based counter terror strike not a military action for sake of war. Have demolished entire terror set up in the suicide bombing training centre in Balakot, and over 300 terrorists were eliminated in the covert operation by Indian Air Force,” government sources said.

First visuals of JeM facility destroyed by IAF strikes

News agency ANI tweeted out visuals of the JeM facility destroyed by Indian Ar Force strikes in Balakot. However, the time when the picture was tweeted is not clear. 

Intel Sources: Ammunition dump blown up today in Balakot,Pakistan by IAF Mirages. The dump had more than 200 AK rifles, uncountable rounds hand grenades, explosives and detonators pic.twitter.com/b7ENbKgYaH

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

Intel Sources: Picture of JeM facility destroyed by Indian Ar Force strikes in Balakot, Pakistan pic.twitter.com/th1JWbVrHw

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2019

Narendra Modi recites BJP’s 2014 anthem at rally in Churu 

“Today I repeat what I said back in 2014 – Saugandh mujhe is mitti ki main desh nahi mitne doonga, main desh nahi rukne doonga. Main desh nahi jhukne doonga….Mera vachan hai Bharat maa ko, tera sheesh nahi jhukne doonga…" 

India is in safe hands: Modi tells India

“Today, from Churu’s land, I assure the countrymen that the country is in safe hands,” roared a confident Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. “Today your mood is different,” said Modi before raising Bharat Mata ki Jai slogans.

लाइव : पीएम श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी की चूरू, राजस्थान में विशाल विजय संकल्प सभा। https://t.co/bVHW4xT3hj

— BJP (@BJP4India) February 26, 2019

Retaliatory action will actually be the start of the unlearning process for Pakistan: Sajad Lone

People’s Conference chairman Sajad Gani Lone Tuesday said the air strikes carried out by the Indian Air Force on terror camps in Pakistan will set a benchmark for deterrence and eventually end the cycle of violence.

“Pacifist to the core I am. But the reality as it stares in our faces is that this retaliatory action will actually be the start of the unlearning process for Pakistan. This will set the benchmark for deterrence. And eventually crowd out cycle of violence,” Lone said in a tweet. 

Pacifist to the core I am. But the reality as it stares in our faces is that this retaliatory action will actually be the start of the unlearning process for Pakistan. This will set the benchmark for deterrence. And eventually crowd out cycle of violence.

— Sajad Lone (@sajadlone) February 26, 2019

Today’s strong action shows the will and resolve of a New India, tweets Amit Shah

In a series of tweets, BJP chief Amit Shah said that the airstrikes conducted by the IAF on Tuesday “further demonstrates that India is safe and secure under the strong and decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.” 

Today's strong action shows the will and resolve of a New India.
Our New India will not spare any acts of terror and their perpetrators and patrons.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 26, 2019

भारत की जाबांज सेना को उनकी बहादुरी और वीरता के लिए बधाई देता हूँ और उन्हें सलाम करता हूँ।

आज की कार्रवाई ने यह पुनः साबित किया है कि प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी के मजबूत और निर्णायक नेतृत्व में भारत सुरक्षित है।

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 26, 2019

आज की यह कार्रवाई नये भारत की इच्छाशक्ति और संकल्प को दर्शाती है।

यह नया भारत किसी भी सूरत में आतंकवाद को बर्दाश्त नहीं करेगा और न ही आतंकवादियों और उनके संरक्षकों को माफ करेगा।

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 26, 2019

Narendra Modi is making every countryman proud: Nitin Gadkari

भारत के सैनिकों- आप पर हमें गर्व है।प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेंद्र मोदी जी के मजबूत नेतृत्व में आज हर देशवासी गौरवान्वित महसूस कर रहा है। आतंकियों के पनाहगार याद रखे ये नया भारत है, हम किसि को छेड़ते नहीं, पर किसी ने छेड़ा तो उसे छोड़ेंगे भी नहीं। जय हिंद#IndianAirForce

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 26, 2019

Residents of Balakot have confirmed air strikes by IAF, reports BBC Hindi

#IndianAirForce ने पाकिस्तान के जिस बालाकोट पर हमला किया वहां के लोग क्या बोले?

वीडियो: एम.ए. जर्राल pic.twitter.com/1xSCEp1koU

— BBC News Hindi (@BBCHindi) February 26, 2019

Hindutva ideologues have resulted in rigid attitude towards Pakistan: Media

An editorial in Dawn , put the onus on war-mongering on “Hindutva ideologues” and said, “In India’s case, Hindutva ideologues have infiltrated all levels of the state machinery; this has resulted in an increasingly rigid attitude towards Pakistan.”

The article further noted “Indian military’s brutal tactics” in Kashmir and wrote, “Moreover, the Indian military’s brutal tactics in occupied Kashmir have fired up Kashmiri resistance, with the region’s disillusioned youth convinced that only armed struggle against India will help them secure their rights. But it is also true that Pakistan can take steps to send positive signals across the border. Among these can be speeding up the legal process to bring the perpetrators of the Mumbai attack to justice.”

Khawaja Asif calls on Pakistani politicians to put differences aside after IAF strike

Former Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif, in a fiery address on the floor of the National Assembly on Tuesday, called for all parties to “put on a united front” in the wake of IAF’s “non-military” pre-emptive strike in Pakistan’s Balakot area. 

“Our country, our sovereignty, our integrity are being threatened,” Asif  reportedly said , asking that a joint sitting of Parliament be convened on Tuesday. “It is the need of the hour that we show solidarity with the Army.” The PML-N leader said it is “not the time for political point-scoring”, and called for all political parties to “suspend their differences for some time. Asif also said that the message should be sent that all lawmakers are “one in the matter of Kashmir”.

Imran Khan calls ‘important meeting’

Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan has convened an “important meeting” to review the emerging situation in the wake of airstrikes by Indian Air Force in Balakot. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had summoned an emergency meeting at the Foreign Office in Islamabad to discuss the security situation with former secretaries and senior ambassadors earlier on Tuesday, Pakistan media reported .

India had shared with US intel input on 8 major terror camps in PoK and Pakistan

India had shared input on eight major terror training camps in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir and Pakistan with US intelligence besides two dozen small camps. These are as following: 

1. Lashkar-e-Taiba’s religious training institute near Muzaffarabad
2. Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp “Bukad Bud” near Mansehra
3.  Hizbul Mujahideen camp on hill near Mangla
4. Two camps near Shinkari and Tarbela
5. A huge camp housing more than 200 terror recruits on Mansehra Ridge
6. Terror camps at Safaidi, Mansehra 
7. Hizbul Mujahideen camp at Mansehra
8. Let and Hizbul Mujahideen camp at Chakoti, Hattian Bala

Inbound civil traffic being monitored at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi

Unconfirmed reports on Twitter claimed that inbound civil traffic is being monitored at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. The tweet also claimed that heavy military movement has been spotted around the airport following the IAF strikes in Balakot.

Balakot or Bala Kote?

With Pakistan military spokesperson Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeting that the IAF jets had dropped the payload “in haste” near Balakot, confusion ensued about whether the IAF strike took place just across the Line of Control in the town located in Mansehra district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, or in a similarly named town Bala Kote near the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch sector.

Statement by Foreign Secretary on the Strike on JeM training camp at Balakothttps://t.co/0G0R5WhOeB pic.twitter.com/nyzUNiOkzB

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) February 26, 2019

Balakot strikes were necessary, says Lt Gen DS Hooda (Retired), the Northern Army Commander 

“My compliment goes to the government for taking this action and also to the Air Force for the way they have carried out this strike (in Balakot) in an absolutely professional manner,” Lt Gen DS Hooda (Retired), the Northern Army Commander said. 

“All pilots are safe. I think it needed to be done. I personally had no doubt in my mind after Pulwama attack that some strong action will be taken by the government,” Hooda further said.

Sushma Swaraj invites Opposition leaders for briefing on Balakot strikes

Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj has invited Opposition leaders for a briefing on strike on Jaish terror camps. The meeting is scheduled at 5 pm at Jawahar Bhawan.

Army chief, IAF chief brief NSA Ajit Doval

NSA Ajit Doval along with Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat and IAF Chief BS Dhanoa is reviewing the security situation on the borders after Indian Air Force strikes at Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp in Balakot across Line of Control, reports have said.

MEA FULL STATEMENT ON BALAKOT STRIKES

On 14 February 2019, a suicide terror attack was conducted by a Pak based terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammad, leading to the martyrdom of 40 brave jawans of the CRPF.  JeM has been active in Pakistan for the last two decades, and is led by MASOOD AZHAR with its headquarters in Bahawalpur.

This organization, which is proscribed by the UN, has been responsible of a series of terrorist attacks including on the Indian Parliament in December 2001 and the Pathankot airbase in January 2016.

Information regarding the location of training camps in Pakistan and PoJK has been provided to Pakistan from time to time.  Pakistan, however, denies their existence.  The existence of such massive training facilities capable of training hundreds of jidhadis could not have functioned without the knowledge of Pakistan authorities.

India has been repeatedly urging Pakistan to take action against the JeM to prevent jihadis from being trained and armed inside Pakistan.  Pakistan has taken no concrete actions to dismantle the infrastructure of terrorism on its soil. 

Credible intelligence was received that JeM was attempting another suicide terror attack in various parts of the country, and the fidayeen jihadis were being trained for this purpose.  In the face of imminent danger,  a preemptive strike became absolutely necessary.

In an intelligence led operation in the early hours of today, India struck the biggest training camp of JeM in Balakot.  In this operation, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis who were being trained for fidayeen action were eliminated.  This facility at Balakot was headed by MAULANA YOUSUF AZHAR (alias USTAD GHOURI), the brother-in-law of MASOOD AZHAR, Chief of JeM.

The Government of India is firmly and resolutely committed to taking all necessary measures to fight the menace of terrorism.  Hence this non-military preemptive action was specifically targeted at the JeM camp.  The selection of the target was also conditioned by our desire to avoid civilian casualties.  The facility is located in thick forest on a hilltop far away from any civilian presence.  As the strike has taken place only a short while  ago, we are awaiting further details. 
 
The Government of Pakistan had made a solemn commitment in January 2004 not to allow its soil or territory under its control to be used for terrorism against India.  We expect that Pakistan lives up to its public commitment and takes follow up actions to dismantle all JeM and other camps and hold the terrorists accountable for the actions.

Pakistani drone shot down near Gujarat: Debris found near Nanghatad village in Abdasa taluka of Kutch

A Pakistani unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) on Tuesday was shot down near the International Border in Kutch district of Gujarat, police sources said. Debris of the UAV was seen near Nanghatad village in Abdasa taluka of Kutch, they said.

On hearing a loud sound around 6 am, villagers went to the spot and found the debris of the UAV, the sources said. Asked if a Pakistani UAV had been shot down by the Indian armed forces, a police official, on condition of anonymity, said, “Such an incident has happened, we are investigating the matter.”

The official, however, refused to elaborate further.

Dawn editorial slams Indian media for war-mongering

An editorial in Dawn slammed the Indian media and said “particularly jarring are the armchair warriors of the media — especially on the Indian side — baying for the blood of the ‘other’.” The editorial, titled  War rhetoric & reality  said, “There has also been a reprehensible effort to exploit the attack and work up anti-Kashmiri and anti-Muslim sentiments in India, predominantly by the storm troopers of Hindutva. But perhaps what is most worrisome is that ministers and members of the establishment on both sides are talking casually about war.”

The article further notes: “In such a tense atmosphere, India should take up Pakistan’s offer to “give peace a chance” as the alternatives to constructive dialogue are confrontation and yet more hostility.”

‘No casualties, no damages on ground’: Balakot police chief tells AP

Dawn reported that Balakot police chief Saghir Hussain Shah told The Associated Press that he had sent teams to the area — which he described as a mostly deserted wooded area — who found “no casualties, no damages on the ground because of the dropping of the bombs.”

The report comes in the wake of foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale’s press briefing confirming a non-military intelligence-led pre-emptive attack in Balakot aimed at Jaish-e-Mohammad training camps.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi warns India not to challenge Pakistan

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi warned India not to challenge Pakistan. In a statement on Tuesday after the “non-military intelligence-led pre-epmtive strike” in Balakot, Qureshi reportedly said that better sense should prevail in India, Radio Pakistan reported .

Qureshi said that Pakistan should not be worried over the Indian act as the defenders of the country are fully prepared to respond to any misadventure. He said it is our faith that God Almighty is the only supreme power. Qureshi said, “We are peace loving nation and have registered successes in the war on terrorism.”

He said peace has established in Pakistan as a result of sacrifices of martyrs.

Non-military intelligence-led strike in Pakistan: Summary of Vijay Ghokale’s press briefing

Large number of Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists, trainers and senior commanders were eliminated in largest Jaish camp in Balakot, foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale told the press on Tuesday. The Ministry of External Affairs briefing was held after reports claimed that combat jets of the Indian Air Force bombed terror camps at multiple locations across the Line of Control on the Pakistani side in a pre-dawn strike. 

The Indian retaliation comes 12 days after the Pakistan-based terror group, Jaish-e-Mohammed carried out the Pulwama attack in Kashmir, government sources said.

Gokhale further said that the camp was led by Maulana Yusuf Azhar alias Ustad Ghauri, brother in law of JeM Chief Masood Azhar. “In an intelligence-led operation in the early hours today, India struck the biggest training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Balakot. In this operation, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commander and Jihadis were eliminated. Credible information was received that JeM was attempting other attacks in the country. A pre-emptive strike became important. India struck the biggest camp of JeM in Balakot.”

IAF jets target Jaish, Laskhar and Hizbul camps near Muzaffarabad

According to defence sources, IAF fighter jets targeted Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad and and Hizbul Mujahideen camps near Muzaffarabad. LeT has a huge set up also known as religious training institute in the area. Sources also claimed that another target was Balakot in Mansehra of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Sources said JeM has a terror camp in Mansehra  known as ‘Bukad Bud’ and HM camp is also located nearby. 

So, the three locations hit were: Balakot, Muzaffarabad and Chakoti

Bombs hit Jaba Top – between Mansehra and  Balakot

Several bombs hit Jaba Top, between Mansehra and  Balakote. At least, 100 to 200 were present at camp at the time of the strike who were attending Jaish-e-Mohammad functions. Area was cordoned off by the Pakistan Army when police got there.

Here is the exact location of IAF strikes in across LoC

This is the exact location where the biggest training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed is located and where IAF carried out non-military preemptive strike today. 

The Pakistan connection: How terror groups continue recruiting youth in pakistan

Feeding the fidayeen factory in Kashmir is a much larger army: the infrastructure which organises the hundreds of young south Punjab (in Pakistan) men who head to the Jaish’s military camps each year. In its magazine, al-Qalam, the Jaish calls on Punjabis to donate their religious tithe for jihadists. It publishes accounts of mosque-level meetings across the region, asking for volunteers for jihad.

Jaish publications show that three recruitment programmes were opened this month in Bahawalpur alone: from 16 February to 2 March, 22 February to 8 March, and from 23 February to 9 March. The message relayed to the young recruits remains the same: the survival of Islam rests on armed jihad.

The Pakistan connection: How terror groups continue recruiting youth in pakistan

Feeding the fidayeen factory in Kashmir is a much larger army: the infrastructure which organises the hundreds of young south Punjab (in Pakistan) men who head to the Jaish’s military camps each year. In its magazine, al-Qalam, the Jaish calls on Punjabis to donate their religious tithe for jihadists. It publishes accounts of mosque-level meetings across the region, asking for volunteers for jihad.

Jaish publications show that three recruitment programmes were opened this month in Bahawalpur alone: from 16 February to 2 March, 22 February to 8 March, and from 23 February to 9 March. The message relayed to the young recruits remains the same: the survival of Islam rests on armed jihad.

Strike in Pakistani occupied territory a preemptive strike based on specific intelligence inputs, says Vijay Gokhale 

“In an intelligence lead operation in the early hours today, India struck the biggest training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Balakot. In this operation, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commander and Jihadis were eliminated. Credible information was received that JeM was attempting other attacks in the country. A pre-emptive strike became important. India struck the biggest camp of JeM in Balakot,” Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

India undertook Non-military preemptive strike to specifically target terror installations ,says Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale

Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said that India targeted known terror camps — following specific intel inputs — located in deep forests away from the civilian population were targetted. Gokhale termed the strikes a non-military preemptive action and refused to take any further questions.

Flying war planes, talk of surgical strikes induce fear of impending war in Kashmiris

As the news of Indian Air Forces strike inside Pakistan Occupied Kashmir started trickling in, residents in border towns of Kashmir started wondering if there might be a war in coming days between India and Pakistan. At Sheeri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla town, on the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road a group of people were glued to a TV in the main market- keeping an eye on the developments. 
 

“I think there is going to be a war now,” Amir Shah, 25, a student, told to his friend, who along with other people were watching the news on TV inside a shop.  “It has already started and if not a war after what India did Pakistan is not going to stay silent. I have a feeling they will also do something.”

Imran Khan’s party reacts post IAF strikes

Pakistan’s ruling party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf lashed out at Indian media for ‘war mongering’. In a tweet from its official handle, the party said that the coverage of the event shows a “disturbing bloodlust and deteriorating mindset at a time when Pakistan is on an upward trajectory”

We always knew Indian media was irresponsible, but beating the war drums shows a disturbing bloodlust and deteriorating mindset at a time when Pakistan is on an upward trajectory. Indian jets scrambled back from Balakot which lies close to the LOC.#Pakistan

— PTI (@PTIofficial) February 26, 2019

Lack of counter response suggests Pakistan consciously chose to de-escalate tension

Considering the world class SiLLaCS (Siemens Low Level air Control System) air defence system operating out of Sargodha it is technically not possible for an IAF attack sortie to go into Pakistan without PAF being alerted. But because there was no immediate counter-response the interesting and obvious take is that the Pakistan military has decided to de-escalate by not reacting despite repeated warnings that it would.

Pakistan drone shot down near Kutch in Gujarat at around 6.30 am, claim reports

Reports have said that a Pakistani drone has been shot down at around 6.30 am in Gujarat’s Kutch region. More details on this are awaited.

The options before Pakistan

Pakistan has two options now. It’s first, strategically sensible option, is to do nothing: in the midst of IMF negotiations for a bailout, and with a ballooning budget deficit, it just cannot afford a crisis. But there are those in Pakistan’s army who think the country’s long-term security requires a response. In that case, a big response—threatening escalation to a nuclear level—makes the most sense, since it would involve the Great Powers fastest. Even if India makes no public comment, moreover, public pressure will mount as video and accounts emerge from Balakote—it is after all a mid-size town, and the camp is quite close by. 

Two Indian Prime Ministers have faces similar choices. In 2001, after the attack on Parliament House, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee was briefed on the benefits and risks of air strikes. He eventually ordered a large-scale mobilisation of troops to signal willingness to go to war—but did not authorise air strikes, fearing they could spark of a tit-for-tat cycle of attacks, without securing any strategic ends. Army chief General S Padmanabhan and Air Force chief Air Chief AY Tipnis both had their reservations, for different reasons—but Vajpayee’s mobilisation eventually secured a deescalation in Kashmir, albeit at huge cost. After 26/11, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh considered air strikes; at one stage, IAF jets were on the runways with engines running. But there were issues with intelligence for targeting data and, unsure of impacts, India held back

CCS meeting ends

BBC quotes IAF sources to claim Indian forces crossed Line of Control not International border

BBC said that the Indian Air Force has confirmed to it that they crossed the Line of Control and not the International Border. Firstpost could not independently verify this report, but if indeed this is true then this means that the IAF did not hit the Balakot in KPK province. 

Meanwhile, Indian news agency ANI claimed that the one of the targets destroyed by IAF Mirage jets was in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A clearer picture should emerge after the Foreign Secretary’s meeting. 

Important to clarify here that the #IndianAirforce has confirmed to the BBC - that the aircrafts crossed the LoC and not international borders. https://t.co/uYmxBq9znR

— Sameer Hashmi (@sameerhashmi) February 26, 2019

Choice of timing for attack strategic, 3.30 am marks psychological low point of alertness in troops 

It was well planned military strategy to go in at 03.30 am which is the psychological low point of alertness. The enemy is asleep, the scramble by the PAF that much slower and through history pre-dawn attacks have been of the essence. Japan attacked the US Midway Atoll around 4 am. In the Battle of the Bulge most major assaults were timed for pre-dawn. The British Harriers attacked the Falklands before the sun came up.  The US 1st Special Forces were hit by a reinforced Viet Cong battalion which launched a full-scale, pre-dawn attack on the camp. The Americans were outnumbered 3 to 1.

The US army combat Journal says pre-dawn window offers maximum surprise even for boots on the ground. The Soviet Military review endorses this.
Bikram

Three locations in Pakistan hit by Indian Air Force

Here are the three locations in Pakistan bombed by Indian Air Force today: 

– Balakot, which is 24 kilometre northwest of Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, was struck between 3.45 am and 3.53 am. However, there is still confusion over whether this place falls in PoK or proper Pakistani territory. 

– Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, was hit between 3.48 am and 3.55 am.

– Chakoti, was he last to be hit between 3.58 am and 4.04 am

IAF operation lasted less than 21 minutes 

Defence sources said that the IAF strike lasted not more than 21 minutes, right from take off till the return into Indian territory. The strike took place in Balakote, 24 kilometre northwest of Muzaffarabad at around 3: 45-3:53 am. The joint training camps of JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen were hit. 

Reports further suggested that the terrorist groups had emptied their launchpads but not the training camps.

Confusion over which Balakot hit by Indian side prevails 

Confusion over which Balakot has been hit by Indian strikes prevails. Earlier reports claimed that it was in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, but subsequently media started claiming that the Balakote in KPK province. 

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Army said that the ‘intrusion’ across LoC was in Muzaffarabad Sector within occupied Kashmir, which was just three to four miles within the Actual Line of Control. However, journalists have pointed out that the “other” Bala Kote, in Poonch, is nowhere near Muzaffarabad. 

Spelled as Balakote, Balakot and Bala Kot in various report, the exact location of the territory hit will only be clear when the Indian authorities take an official stand. 

The debate about which Balakot the DG ISPR has acknowledged needs to be resolved by him, through a clarification - but if you look at the map, the "other" Bala Kote, in Poonch, is nowhere near Muzaffarabad--which he mentions.

Maybe there is a better explanation out there. pic.twitter.com/yaTWtn9o6n

— Mosharraf Zaidi (@mosharrafzaidi) February 26, 2019

Pakistan claims Indian jets struck PoK not KPK province 

Pakistan Army spokesperson, Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted Tuesday stating that the Indian Air Force jets struck the Balakot village in Muzaffarpur sector in the Pakistan occupied territory and not in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. 

Indian aircrafts’ intrusion across LOC in Muzafarabad Sector within AJ&K was 3-4 miles.Under forced hasty withdrawal aircrafts released payload which had free fall in open area. No infrastructure got hit, no casualties. Technical details and other important information to follow.

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) February 26, 2019

‘We heard war planes, knew something was happening,’ Kashmir residents tweet out experience 

Kashmiris have taken to to twitter confirming that an air strike did happen on Tuesday. Many residents reported hearing war planes in the night sky which led them to believe that something big is happening. 

We're in Srinagar. All we could hear is: war planes roaring in the skies past 3 am. My wife woke me up to say "something is going on".

— YusufJameelیوسف جمیل (@jameelyusuf) February 26, 2019

Pakistan Foreign Ministry calls emergency meet; Indian Cabinet also in huddle 

India Today reported that the Pakistan Foreign Minister has called an emergency meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan. Meanwhile, in India the prime minister is in huddle with his own Cabinet colleagues, including Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj. 

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval was also present.

Pointless to speculate on impact of strike till it is clear which Balakot did IAF hit, says Omar Abdullah

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said that since it was not yet clear whether India bombed the Balakote in Pakistani territory or within the occupied territory, it was unwise to speculate. He said if the territory bombed was indeed in Pakistan occupied Kashmir, then the strike was merely symbolic. 

“If this is Balakote in KPK it’s a major incursion & a significant strike by IAF planes. However if it’s Balakote in Poonch sector, along the LoC it’s a largely symbolic strike because at this time of the year forward launch pads & militant camps are empty & non-functional,” he said.  

Unless we know which Balakote is being talked about by the Pakistani generals it’s pointless speculating about what we may have hit & what fallout the airstrike will have.

— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) February 26, 2019

Balakot village near LoC in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir as well; no official confirmation yet 

Reports have pointed out that there is a village called Balakot in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir as well apart from the Balakote sector in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. Since there has been no official word on the attacks yet, it is still unclear whether the strikes took place within occupied territory or in proper Pakistani territory.

Rahul Gandhi tweets after IAF strikes in Pakistan, salutes IAF pilots 

🇮🇳 I salute the pilots of the IAF. 🇮🇳

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) February 26, 2019

#SurgicalStrike2 trends on Twitter in India

Moments after the news of a possible Indian Air Force strike within Pakistani territory spread, people startled tweeting using the #SurgicalStrike2, comparing these strikes to the one carried out by Indian Army post the Uri attack. 

IAF intruded Muzafarabad sector and released payload near Balakot, which is way beyond LoC.

Interesting to know #Balakot has a #JeM training base

Now, How's the Josh??#Surgicalstrike2 https://t.co/VwAXoIWlwj

— Chetan Gupta (@guptachetan34) February 26, 2019

Defence Ministry not confirming attacks due to strategic reasons  

Balakote training camp is in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, which means India has struck inside Pakistani territory, and not just occupied areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

This may account for the absence of official confirmation from the Defence Ministry as India has no wish to push Pakistan into a corner from where it has to hit back on Jaish-e-Mohammad’s behalf. Reuters is reporting that the Defence Ministry is saying it has no knowledge of violations of Pakistani airspace.

Balakote one of oldest, best-known Jaish camps in Pakistan 

Balakote is one of the Jaish-e-Muhammad’s oldest and best-known training camps, which has found mention in many past criminal cases in India and abroad. There was limited physical infrastructure at the base—witnesses have spoken of a main tin-roof shed, a small mosque and several earth houses.

Jaish chief Masood Azhar wrote the Fath-ul Jawwad, his disquisition on the Quranic basis of jihad, during a retreat at Balakot. He sought inspiration from the memory of Islamic revivalists Syed Ahmed Barelvi and Shah Ismail, who were killed in 1831 after waging an unsuccessful insurgency against the Sikh empire

IAF went beyond POK, near Paskitan’s capital while they were busy counting alms,’ says Abhishek Manu Singhvi

One of the first from the Congress party to tweet out, Abhishek manu Singhvi said that the “Helter skelter by Pakistan” seems to suggest that Indian Air Force has managed to cause big damage. 

Indian Air Force Strikes at Balakot don't have official word yet but the Helter skelter by Pakistan seems like something big has happened. The IAF has gone beyond POK & into Pakistan near their capital while they were busy counting alms received from Saudi & China.

— Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) February 26, 2019

Report claims India destroyed Alpha 3 control rooms in Balakot 

Senior journalist Megha Prasad claimed that IAF has destroyed Alpha 3 Control rooms and launch pads of Jaish-e-Muhammad in at least three locations. 

Sources: Indian Air Force (IAF) has destroyed Alpha 3 Control rooms and launch pads of Jaish-e-Muhammad in Balakot, Muzaffarabad and Chakothi #Balakot #surgicalstrike2

— Megha Prasad (@MeghaSPrasad) February 26, 2019

Subramanian Swamy claims IAF strikes in self defence, breaks no international law 

We are bombing our own territory temporarily called PoK. So no international law broken but it is in self defence

— Subramanian Swamy (@Swamy39) February 26, 2019

IAF crossed into Pakistani territory, much beyond disputed land 

If the strikes have indeed been conducted in Pakistan’s Balakot sector, then the strike was much within the Pakistani territory, reports said. Balakot is reportedly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan.

Govt sources say Balakot Jaish camp completely flattened 

CNN-News18 reported quoting government sources that the Balakot Jaish camp has been completely flattened in the limited strikes conducted by Indian Air Force. The sources said that initial assessment of damages suggest at least 200 to 300 casualties.

Pakistan Army spokesperson claim IAF operation failed to cause any damage 

Pakistan Army spokesperson, Major General Asif Ghafoor claimed that the Indian Air Force attack within the Pakistan Occupied Kashmir failed to cause any damage. He claimed that the Indian jets had to ‘hastily’ drop the payload in an ‘open area’.

Payload of hastily escaping Indian aircrafts fell in open. pic.twitter.com/8drYtNGMsm

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) February 26, 2019

At least 12 Mirage 2000 jets crossed Line of Control, say sources 

At least 12 Mirage 2000 jets took part in the operation that dropped 1000 kilogramme bombs on terror camps across Line of Control, completely destroying it, ANI reported_._ The operation was launched at 3.56 am on Tuesday morning.

IAF jets bombed Jaish camp with 1000 kg explosives, say sources 

Indian Air Force sources further said that bombs carrying at least a 1000 kilogramme of explosives were dropped on a major terror installation of Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist group, across the Line of Control, ANI reported.

Mirage 2000 jets struck a major terrorist camp in Balakot, say IAF sources

Indian Air Force sources told ANI that a group of Mirage 2000 jets struck a major terrorist camp in Balakot sector in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. The sources said that the targetted militant training camp was ‘completely destroyed’ and the pilots safely came back into the Indian territory.

PAF scrambled, forced Indian jets to turn back 

Pakistan Armed Forces spokesperson, Major General Asif Ghafoor, on Twitter claimed “Indian Air Force violated Line of Control. Pakistan Air Force immediately scrambled. Indian aircraft gone back.

Indian aircrafts intruded from Muzafarabad sector. Facing timely and effective response from Pakistan Air Force released payload in haste while escaping which fell near Balakot. No casualties or damage.

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) February 26, 2019

Pakistan claims IAF jets ‘intruded’ into its territory

Pakistan on Tuesday alleged that Indian Air Force aircraft crossed the Line of Control and were forced to turn back after Pakistan Air Force scrambled into action. Pakistan Army spokesperson, Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted Tuesday morning alleging that more than one Indian Air Force jet ‘intruded’ into Pakistani territory from Muzaffarabad sector. Ghafoor said, “Facing timely and effective response from Pakistan Air Force, (IAF jets) released payload in haste while escaping which fell near Balakot. No casualties or damage.”