Gave a befitting reply to Pakistan for its sponsorship of cross-border terrorism: MEA on Op Sindoor

New Delhi: Marking the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor, India on Thursday reiterated that it has every right to defend itself against cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan, while asserting that New Delhi will continue to strengthen the global fight against terrorism.

Addressing the weekly media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India’s response to the Pahalgam terror attack had sent a strong message against terrorism sponsored from across the border.

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"We are marking the first anniversary of Op Sindoor today. The entire world saw the Pahalgam terrorist attack for what it was. We gave a befitting reply to Pakistan for its sponsorship of cross-border terrorism," he said.

"The world knows that cross-border terrorism has long been an instrument of state policy for Pakistan. We in India have every right to defend ourselves against terrorism," he added.

Jaiswal further said that India would continue efforts to strengthen international cooperation against terrorism.

Operation Sindoor was launched by India on May 7 last year in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Under the operation, Indian forces carried out airstrikes targeting nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, reportedly eliminating at least 100 terrorists.

The military action led to heightened tensions between the two countries, with Pakistan launching retaliatory strikes. However, most of the attacks were intercepted by the Indian armed forces. The hostilities eventually ceased on May 10 following talks between military officials through the hotline mechanism.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also highlighted the significance of Operation Sindoor, saying it reflected India’s determination to counter terrorism originating from Pakistan.

"With its decisive actions, India ensured accountability for terrorist actions. And underlined that such a serious threat to peace and security will be effectively countered," he said in a social media post.