India Urges Turkey to Deter Pakistan from Cross-Border Terrorism
New Delhi has issued a strong warning to Ankara, urging it to dissuade Pakistan from using cross-border terrorism as a tool of state policy and to take concrete steps against the terror networks that have plagued the region for decades.
India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized that bilateral relations between the two countries are built on mutual respect and sensitivity to each other’s concerns. The government reiterated its expectations that Turkey should encourage Pakistan to address the issue of terrorism emanating from its borders.
The tension between India and Turkey has escalated in recent months, particularly following the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam. The incident, which was carried out by Pakistan-linked terrorists associated with the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, has led to heightened security measures and a renewed focus on cross-border threats.
India’s Operation Sindoor response has highlighted the role of Turkey in supporting Pakistan’s military actions against India. The government stated that over 300-400 drones used by Pakistan in its escalation against India were supplied by Turkey. These drones targeted both military and civilian areas along the western border, from Leh in Ladakh to Sir Creek in Gujarat.
Turkey’s support for Pakistan has not been limited to military aid. The country has also been in solidarity with Pakistan during India’s military operations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Despite India’s precision missile strikes that eliminated over 100 terrorists, Turkey did not condemn the Pahalgam attack, which was linked to the banned group.
India has also pointed out that Turkey has historically backed Pakistan in its occupation of Indian territory in Jammu and Kashmir. During Operation Sindoor, Turkey sent a warship to Karachi Port, which it described as a routine port call. Reports suggest that military aircraft carrying arms and weapons were also sent to Pakistan, though Turkey has denied these claims, stating the aircraft were for refueling purposes.
Following India’s military action, Turkish President Erdogan sent a message of solidarity to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressing condolences for the victims of the attacks. This has drawn criticism from Indian officials, who view Turkey’s stance as a betrayal of regional stability.
Amid growing anti-Turkey sentiment in India, citizens and activists are calling for a total boycott of Turkish goods and services. There are also appeals to avoid Turkey as a holiday destination and to refrain from filming in the country. The situation underscores the deepening rift between India and Turkey, which has been exacerbated by Turkey’s perceived support for Pakistan’s militant activities.