EAM Jaishankar in Netherlands: Pakistan Cannot Escape Consequences If Terror Persists, Says India

The Hague, May 22, 2025: On an official visit to the Netherlands, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a stern warning to Pakistan, asserting that if cross-border terrorism continues, Islamabad will face severe consequences. In a detailed interview with Dutch daily de Volkskrant, Jaishankar underscored India’s clear message following the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, and stressed that the ceasefire with Pakistan does not imply tolerance for terrorism.

“We want a definitive end to terrorism… if the terrorist attacks from Pakistan continue, there will be consequences. The Pakistanis must understand that very well,” Jaishankar said. He categorically stated that Pakistan’s military is not just complicit but deeply entrenched in the terror infrastructure operating openly in Pakistani cities. “Let’s not pretend that Pakistan is not involved. The state is involved. The army is up to its neck in it,” he declared.

Jaishankar replaced Prime Minister Modi on this diplomatic visit due to the ongoing post-Operation Sindoor tensions between India and Pakistan. His meetings focused on counterterrorism, Dutch arms supplies to Pakistan, and enhancing economic and technological cooperation between India and the Netherlands. Discussions included future collaboration in sectors like semiconductors, green hydrogen, pharmaceuticals, and hydraulic engineering.

When questioned on Jammu and Kashmir, Jaishankar reaffirmed that terrorism is not linked to any territorial dispute but is a global crime. He rejected any third-party mediation, insisting the Kashmir issue is strictly bilateral. “Our position is that the illegal occupiers should return their illegally occupied parts to the rightful owner. And that is us,” he said.

On India’s broader diplomatic posture, he defended the country’s distinct geopolitical approach as a post-colonial Asian society. He said India supports reform of global institutions, including seeking a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, asserting, “We are now the fourth-largest economy in the world… and we know that comes with responsibilities.”

Responding to questions on India’s ties with Russia, Jaishankar emphasized that India does not follow the Western model of sanctions. On the Russia-Ukraine conflict, he reiterated India’s stance for peace and said India is open to mediation if invited by both parties.

India’s Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, targeted nine terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Following the strikes, India made it clear that it did not target Pakistani military or civilian infrastructure, but only terrorist facilities. The response came after Pakistan’s retaliation via shelling and drone attacks, which were countered by Indian forces.

A temporary cessation of hostilities was agreed upon on May 10, but India has maintained its position that peace is contingent on an end to terrorism.