Growing threat requires strong response-
By- RC Sharma Pentoday-
India has faced persistent threats from terrorism, with cross-border attacks, militancy and radicalisation posing significant challenges to national security. The devastating attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, in which 28 people, including 26 Indian tourists, two locals and two foreigners, were killed by terrorists of The Resistance Front (TRF) in the Baisaran plains, underlines the urgent need to tackle this threat. There is a need to take inspiration from Israel’s robust counter-terrorism strategies, with experts and citizens alike urging India to adopt a more decisive and proactive approach to neutralise these threats. The phrase “India must now end terrorism like Israel” has gained momentum, reflecting the public demand for quick and effective action.
Israel’s model: Precision and resolve
Israel, a nation surrounded by hostile entities, has developed one of the world’s most effective counterterrorism structures. Its strategies include preemptive strikes, advanced intelligence networks and rapid reaction units. Intelligence agencies such as the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Mossad work together to identify threats and eliminate them before they materialize. For example, Israel’s targeted operations against terrorist leaders have significantly disrupted terrorist networks.
India, with its vast and diverse landmass, faces a different set of challenges, but the core tenets of Israel’s approach – intelligence-driven operations, inter-agency coordination and zero tolerance for terrorism – can be adapted to suit its needs. The 2008 Mumbai attacks, the 2019 Pulwama attack and now the Pahalgam massacre have exposed flaws in India’s preparedness, leading to calls for a more aggressive approach.
India’s Current Efforts and Challenges
India has made progress in combating terrorism, with agencies such as the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) playing key roles. Operations such as the 2016 surgical strike and the 2019 Balakot airstrike demonstrate India’s willingness to respond to cross-border terrorism. However, challenges such as bureaucratic delays, inadequate intelligence sharing, and political considerations often hinder prompt action. The Pahalgam attack, where terrorists posed as policemen and used communal tactics to target non-Muslims, highlights the changing nature of threats and the need for real-time intelligence and rapid response mechanisms.
In addition, the rise of domestic radicalism and cyberterrorism has added complexity to the threat landscape. Unlike Israel, where threats are often external, India must deal with both domestic and foreign elements, requiring a multi-pronged approach. The TRF’s claim that the Pahalgam attack was a retaliation for alleged demographic changes following the revocation of Article 370 shows how local grievances are exploited by foreign-backed groups to fuel militancy.
Roadmap for India
To emulate Israel’s success, India can focus on the following areas:
Strengthening intelligence: Investing in cutting-edge surveillance technologies and human intelligence networks to prevent attacks, especially in vulnerable areas such as Pahalgam.
Special units: Expanding elite forces such as the National Security Guard (NSG) and equipping them with advanced training and resources to counter sophisticated attacks.
Legislative reforms: Streamlining laws to enable swift prosecution of terrorists and their supporters, addressing communal tactics as seen in Pahalgam.
Public awareness: Educating citizens to recognise and report suspicious activities, promoting a culture of vigilance to protect tourist centres and public places.
The way forward
While adopting the Israeli model offers valuable lessons, India must tailor its strategies to its unique socio-political context. A balanced approach combining diplomatic efforts with military precision is essential to address root causes such as poverty, radicalism and local discontent. The Pahalgam attack, in which tourists were targeted to disrupt Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and spread fear, is a grim reminder of the stakes involved. The sentiment implicit in “India must now end terrorism like Israel” underscores the urgency of the moment. As threats evolve, so must India’s resolve to protect its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its citizens.
