Just two weeks ago, AlertsUSA Threat Journal reported on a horrific Islamist terror attack on a group of mostly Hindu tourists in the Indian-administered area of Jammu and Kashmir in the north of the country. 26 were killed and 17 injured. In the time since, India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and various security agencies, including the National Investigation Agency, have alleged that the attack was orchestrated by Pakistan-based militants operating under the name "The Resistance Front", which is widely believed to be a rebranding of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a UN-proscribed terrorist group.
India also claims the attack was directed by senior operatives of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence agency (ISI). Naturally, Pakistan has denied any involvement.
On Tuesday, AlertsUSA subscribers were some of the first in the U.S. to learn that India had launched missile strikes on both Pakistan and Pakistan--administered Kashmir in retaliation for the April 22nd attacks. Known as Operation Sindoor, the strikes targeted nine terror-related sites and were carried out using French-made Indian Air Force Rafael fighter jets equipped with SCALP cruise missiles and hammer glide bombs. In response, Pakistan engaged the Indian aircraft, leading to a major air battle.
According to a report by Reuters, Pakistan's Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets shot down at least two of the Indian military aircraft on Wednesday. Pakistan’s prime minister, Shehbaz Shareef, and the Pak military, claim to have shot down five Indian aircraft.
Ishaq Dar, Pakistan's foreign minister, stated the downed aircraft included three Refaels, one Su-30 MKI, one MiG-29, and approximately two dozen Indian drones.
AlertsUSA subscribers were also notified of US Embassy security messages this week from missions in both India and Pakistan (see the alert list above) warning of the hostilities and urging U.S. citizens to avoid all travel to the troubled regions, and if already there, to get out if possible.
As of the time of this report's preparation Friday evening, are on the brink of a serious conflict, with strikes being carried out by both sides
As of the time of this report's preparation Friday evening, the conflict has been intensifying, with both the two nuclear-armed nations hammering each other's military positions, including air bases and radar installations, along the entire common border. Thus far, there have been no major ground maneuvers.
Late Update: Has the US negotiated a ceasefire?
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RISING TERROR THREAT
In addition to the expansion of the conflict, there is significant concern that the April incident was the start of a new wave of terror attacks. Security has been increasing in major metro areas across the country. The capital of New Delhi is on high alert and fortifying itself. Paramilitary forces have been deployed at markets, metro station, airports, monuments, several of the large hotels, and residential colonies, and the national disaster apparatus has been mobilized. Police checks at key points in the city have been intensified, and all vehicles heading into the national capital are being screened.
In addition, security at major airports across India has also been increased.
MUMBAI 2008
Readers are reminded that in 2008, the coastal city of Mumbai was the site of a brutal 4-day-long string of attacks carried out by the same terror group, Lashkar-e-Taiba. In this incident, 10 members of LeT carried out 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks across the city, targeting high-profile locations in South Mumbai, including the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and the Victoria Train Terminus. The attacks resulted in 175 deaths (including 9 of the attackers), and more than 300 injured. Six Americans were among the dead.
AlertsUSA continues to monitor the national and international threat environment and will immediately notify service subscribers of any new alerts, warnings, or advisories impacting the overall threat picture for American citizens, as events warrant. |
