Shashi Tharoor Condemns Pakistan's Support for Terrorism in Panama
During a recent visit to Panama, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor addressed the Indian community, condemning Pakistan's ongoing support for terrorism against India. He highlighted the historical context of India's struggle with terrorism, dating back to the Kashmir conflict in 1989, and emphasized the need for international support. Tharoor also discussed India's evolving anti-terrorism strategies, including significant military actions taken in recent years. The rising tensions between India and Pakistan following a deadly attack in Pahalgam were also a focal point of his speech, as he called for unity in combating terrorism. This visit underscores India's diplomatic efforts to raise awareness about terrorism on a global scale.
| May 28, 2025, 13:10 IST
Tharoor Addresses Indian Community in Panama
Leading a multi-party parliamentary delegation in Panama, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor condemned Pakistan's ongoing support for terrorism targeting India. Speaking at the Sociedad Hindostan de Panama, Tharoor emphasized that Pakistan has failed to respect India's peaceful intentions. He noted that our desire for solitude has not been reciprocated, as Pakistan has repeatedly attacked us, seeking control over regions that are part of our sovereign territory.
A History of Terrorism
Tharoor reminded the audience that India has endured nearly four decades of terrorist attacks, beginning with the conflict in Kashmir in 1989. He stated that since that first attack, civilians have continuously suffered. Tharoor expressed that it is unacceptable for India to endure pain and loss while appealing to the international community for assistance against these aggressors.
India's Evolving Anti-Terrorism Strategy
Highlighting a shift in India's approach to combating terrorism, Tharoor referenced the surgical strikes in Uri in 2016 and the airstrikes in Balakot in 2019. He remarked, "For the first time, we crossed the Line of Control and later the international border to target terrorist bases in Pakistan." He stressed that India's actions sent a clear message to those behind the attacks: they would face consequences. Notably, under India's diplomatic efforts, seven delegations are visiting 33 capitals worldwide to communicate India's response to terrorism, especially in light of the attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
Rising Tensions Between India and Pakistan
Following the Pahalgam attack, tensions escalated between India and Pakistan. After the attack that claimed 26 lives, India conducted precise strikes on terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) on the night of May 6. In retaliation, Pakistan attempted to strike Indian military bases on May 8, 9, and 10, to which India responded firmly. A conversation between the directors of military operations from both sides on May 10 led to an agreement to halt military hostilities.
Support for Peace
Panama's Assembly President, Dana Castaneda, expressed that Panama stands with India in this peace initiative, hoping to overcome terrorism together.
Tharoor's Emotional Appeal
#WATCH | Panama City | Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, "...Some women cried out The terrorists killed me too, and they said, 'No, go back, tell what happened to you. We heard, we heard their cries and India decided that the colour of the Sindoor, the vermilion colour on the… pic.twitter.com/VOcr3hq3RO
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