In a defining moment for global anti-terror efforts, India’s Operation Sindoor has eliminated a key architect of terror—Abdul Rauf Azhar, the man linked to the gruesome 2002 murder of American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl. The operation, which struck nine terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Jaish-e-Mohammed’s (JeM) stronghold in Bahawalpur, is now being hailed internationally as a long-overdue act of justice.
Azhar, a top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander and the younger brother of the terror group’s chief Masood Azhar, was involved in both the IC-814 hijacking and Pearl’s brutal abduction and beheading. With the destruction of ‘Markaz Subhan Allah,’ JeM’s command and training centre, India has not only dismantled a major base of operations but also delivered long-awaited retribution for Pearl’s killing.
Across social media, influential voices expressed gratitude toward India for acting where others failed for over two decades. American activist Amy Mek wrote, “India delivered justice for Daniel Pearl… Abdul Rauf Azhar wasn’t just a terrorist—he was a mastermind of Islamic terror.” She added that the operation was a powerful statement against jihadist violence.
Former US Special Envoy Ellie Cohanim echoed this sentiment, thanking the Indian government for standing up against terrorism. She emotionally referenced Pearl’s final words—”I am Jewish”—as a symbol of enduring identity and resistance.
Notable figures from around the globe, including author Pamela Geller, human rights lawyer Arsen Ostrovsky, and Israeli journalist Emily Schrader, joined in acknowledging India’s action. “Justice. Thank you, India, for eliminating the monsters who beheaded Daniel Pearl,” Schrader posted.
Ostrovsky highlighted the symbolic unity between Jewish and Indian communities in their common fight against extremism. “The Jewish and Indian people are two proud nations, both fighting against the forces of Islamic terror,” he wrote.
With the Bahawalpur facility now in ruins and Abdul Rauf Azhar no longer a threat, the international community sees India’s move not just as retaliation, but as a landmark step in global justice and anti-terror strategy.
Masood Azhar, still at large, remains one of India’s most wanted terrorists, held responsible for several deadly attacks, including the 2019 Pulwama bombing that killed 40 CRPF personnel.
Operation Sindoor has thus become more than just a military mission—it is a resounding declaration that justice may be delayed, but not denied.
