Tokyo

Satori Nagao, a Japanese strategic expert associated with the Hudson Institute, has commended India’s Operation Sindore as a “responsible and appropriate” measure against state-sponsored terrorism. He criticized Pakistan for its support of terrorist activities, labeling it a “suicide,” given the uncontrollable nature of extremists.

In discussions with ANI, experts described the terrorist attacks that occurred in Pahargam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22nd as “terrifying,” resulting in the deaths of 26 individuals and injuries to several others.

Japanese analysts highlighted the ongoing terrorism faced by India and pointed out Pakistan’s role in it, noting a long-standing history of such support from Islamabad.

Reflecting on the Pahargam events, Nagao remarked, “It was indeed dreadful. Even people in Japan got to see images of the tragedy, like a woman standing close to her husband in a photo… It’s crucial to amplify Indian voices on this issue.”

“At the same time, it’s important for Japan to understand the context, as India is bearing the brunt of this terrorism, which is clearly backed by Pakistan. Communicating this crime is vital,” he added.

“I personally support India strongly. There’s this extensive history of Pakistan’s terrorist support, and they seem to believe that it’s not a problem. In reality, it’s a self-destructive path for them; they too will face consequences for their actions.” 

Nagao subsequently praised Pakistan’s attack on terrorist sites in Jammu and Kashmir on May 7, calling it a “good example of punishment,” cautioning that supporting terrorism is a perilous strategy.

When discussing Operation Sindore, he asserted, “This is a responsible operation. India’s approach is very careful, targeting only terrorist camps. This signifies accountability for terrorism.” He noted that various past terrorist perpetrators have emerged from these camps.

“Thus, it stands as a fitting example of appropriate retribution. Meanwhile, Pakistan must recognize the danger of its strategy. Supporting terrorism essentially invites a prolonged response,” he stated.

Following the Pahargam attack, Indian forces initiated Operation Sindore on May 7, targeting nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, reportedly resulting in over 100 militant fatalities, including members of groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

In response to queries about global accountability regarding state-sponsored terrorism, Nagao expressed, “It’s somewhat tragic that the global community is beginning to recognize Pakistan’s role in supporting terrorism, but this remains a pressing issue.”

“There’s been an overflow of wars and significant news globally. The U.S. often supports India without Indian efforts factoring in, but we must ensure that the situation is understood broadly. Our rights concerning terrorism also need to be recognized and supported,” he elaborated.

Nagao, who earned his doctorate from Gakushuin University in 2011, acknowledged India’s initiative in sending a delegation to Japan to share its perspective, terming India a “strong country” in contending with terrorism.

Commenting on the recent visit by Indian lawmakers to Japan, he noted, “I absolutely believe that’s beneficial, especially since opportunities to discuss these topics are limited if one doesn’t visit Japan.”

“Access tends to be restricted to experts like myself. However, when a delegation presents its views in front of various media representatives, it serves as an invaluable opportunity to convey the Indian perspective. India, as a victim of terrorism, is taking strong measures,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, Hirose Hiromi, a political science professor at Kindai University, condemned the terrorist attacks, emphasizing the tragedy of innocent lives lost, particularly at tourist sites unrelated to any international or religious conflicts.

The all-party parliamentary delegation led by Sanjay Kumar Jha, including figures like Ambassador Mohan Kumar and several MPs from different parties, undertook the mission to explain India’s response to the Pahargam attack and its broader commitment to combating cross-border terrorism, engaging with leaders from Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, and Singapore.