At a time when global security challenges are growing in intensity, India sent out a powerful message to the world at the recently held Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Washington D.C. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar strongly asserted India’s right to defend itself against terrorism, referencing Operation Sindoor, India’s decisive response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
“A word about terrorism in the light of our recent experience. The world must display zero tolerance. Victims and perpetrators must never be equated and India has every right to defend its people against terrorism and we will exercise that right. We expect our Quad partners to understand and appreciate that,” said Mr. Jaishankar, reinforcing India’s firm stance on national security and sovereignty.
QUAD Unites Against Terrorism: Condemns Pahalgam Attack
The Quad nations—India, the United States, Japan, and Australia—issued a joint condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. In a joint statement released by the US Department of State, the Quad reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on terrorism:
“The Quad unequivocally condemns all acts of terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism… We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Pahalgam… and call for the perpetrators, organisers, and financiers of this reprehensible act to be brought to justice without any delay.”
Operation Sindoor: India’s Swift Counterterrorism Response
Following the tragic Pahalgam attack, India swiftly launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror cells in the Kashmir valley. Jaishankar’s remarks mark a resolute diplomatic assertion that India will respond decisively to acts of terror and expects international support from strategic partners like those in the Quad.
A Free and Open Indo-Pacific: QUAD’s Shared Vision
Beyond counterterrorism, the Quad meet reaffirmed the collective goal of securing a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. In his address, Jaishankar emphasized the region’s strategic importance and the importance of rules-based international cooperation:
“I am very pleased to be back in DC for the second time this year for Quad’s Foreign Ministers’ Meeting… Our endeavours are devoted to promoting a rules-based international order. The nations of the Indo-Pacific must have the freedom of choice so essential to make the right decisions on development and security.”
Progress on Quad Initiatives & India’s Host Proposal
Highlighting progress across maritime security, logistics, education, and political coordination, Jaishankar noted significant strides in making the Quad mechanism more agile:
“The working of the Quad has been made more efficient through streamlining the working groups. A more cohesive, nimble and focused Quad will help deliver… I value our consultations on different dimensions of the Indo-Pacific in that regard.”
He also proposed that India host the next Quad Summit, saying:
“India plans to host the next Quad Summit. We have some proposals on how to make it productive, and sure so do our partners. We will discuss and I am sure we will agree.”
Strategic Voices from Allies: Japan, US, Australia
Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya echoed Jaishankar’s emphasis on regional peace:
“The Indo-Pacific region, where all four countries are located, is the engine of the global economy… The four countries in the region have an important role in ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.”
The leaders also launched the first-ever ‘At Sea Observer Mission’, enhancing maritime safety and operational interoperability between the QUAD navies. India was onboard the US Coast Guard Cutter for the initiative, which was conceptualized during the 2024 Quad Leaders’ Summit.
Global Collaboration Against Cross-Border Terrorism
The Quad nations jointly urged all UN member states to actively cooperate with relevant authorities in bringing the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice:
“We urge all UN Member States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant UNSCRs, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard.”
India’s Firm Stance, Stronger Quad Unity
As regional threats evolve, India’s assertive diplomacy under Jaishankar’s leadership is gaining greater recognition among global powers. Also, India advocates for the priorities of the Global South, championing inclusive growth, equitable development, and a multipolar world order.With the Quad now deepening convergence and expanding cooperation across sectors, India’s voice on counterterrorism, sovereignty, and regional stability is louder and more influential than ever.
The message is clear: India will defend itself, and the Quad stands united in its commitment to peace, security, and a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.
