On Thursday, Indian soldiers were the victims of one of the deadliest terror attacks in the country’s history, and it was inspired by President Trump’s decision to withdraw forces from Afghanistan.
38 Central Reserve Police Force members are confirmed dead, with the death toll expected to rise. The terrorist, Adil Ahmad Dar, filled a vehicle with over 100 pounds of explosives and rammed a bus that was traveling as part of a military convoy.
A video message was recorded by Dar prior to his suicide attack, in which he claimed responsibility and explained his motivation.
The attacker has been identified as Adil Ahmed Dar alias Waqas Commander, a young man from Pulwama, was inspired to become a suicide bomber after the Taliban claimed victory since the US announced the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan.
In a video message recorded before the attack that came to light later, Dar said, — “The success of jihad waged by Taliban”, which he claimed ensured the defeat of the US in Afghanistan. The freedom of Muslims in Kashmir, he said, can be attained only by “martyrdom”.
Times of India
President Trump ordered the withdrawal of 7,000 troops from Afghanistan in late December, against the recommendations of some of his top military advisers. The decision was announced amidst the departure of Gen. John Kelly as Chief of Staff and Gen. Jim Mattis as Secretary of Defense.
The precision of the attack and quantity of explosives indicates that it was likely a group effort made with support of Dar’s associated terrorist group, Jasih-e-Mohammed. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has indicated an intent to stress pursuit of the group, declaring the decision to attack the troops a “huge mistake” and promising a “very heavy price“.
Modi has revoked Pakistan’s Most Favored Nation trade status, a move which is expected to dramatically impact the neighboring country’s economy, due to Pakistan’s actions in supporting and harboring terrorists.
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced that, as well as other responses, via terse statements on Twitter.
The U.S. State Department issued a press release on the subject:
The United States condemns in the strongest terms the terrorist attack today on an Indian Central Reserve Police Force convoy in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and their families, and wish a speedy recovery to those injured. The United States is resolutely committed to working with the Indian government to combat terrorism in all its forms. The UN designated, Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad has claimed responsibility for this heinous act. We call on all countries to uphold their responsibilities pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions to deny safe haven and support for terrorists.
U.S. State Department
It is expected that India will press the United States for a stronger stance against Pakistani abuses.
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