India’s Operation Sindoor: 100 Terrorists Killed, Including Masterminds
Major Blow to Terror Groups
The Indian Army has announced a significant victory in its fight against terrorism. In the first day of Operation Sindoor, India carried out targeted strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), killing at least 100 terrorists, including five key operatives of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). These strikes dealt a major blow to the terror infrastructure in the region.
Key Figures Eliminated
Among the slain terrorists were several high-profile figures:
Mohammed Yusuf Azhar: A Mastermind of Terror
Mohammed Yusuf Azhar, also known as Ustad Ji, Mohammad Salim, and Ghosi Sahab, is considered the most significant casualty of Operation Sindoor. He was the brother-in-law of JeM founder Masood Azhar and a wanted accused in the 1999 IC-814 hijacking case. Azhar was a prominent figure in JeM operations and was listed among India’s most wanted terrorists, with an Interpol Red Notice against him since 2000. He was leading the JeM’s largest training camp in Balakot, the same camp that was targeted by India in 2019 following the Pulwama terror attack. Azhar played a crucial role in the IC-814 hijacking, coordinating with the Taliban and ensuring the hijackers’ success. He provided logistical support, managed communication, and facilitated the safe haven for both the hostages and the hijackers.
Mudassar Khadian Khas: Head of LeT Operations
Mudassar Khadian Khas, also known as Mudassar and Abu Jundal, managed Markaz Taiba, considered the LeT headquarters in Pakistan’s Muridke. This facility, where LeT chief Hafiz Mohammed Saeed delivers key sermons and oversees terror attack planning, was also the training ground for 26/11 terrorists Ajmal Kasab and David Coleman Headley. Khas’s funeral, attended by high-ranking Pakistani officials, showcased his importance within the LeT hierarchy.
Hafiz Muhammed Jameel: JeM Shura Member
Hafiz Muhammed Jameel, the eldest brother-in-law of JeM founder Masood Azhar, was a senior operative and member of the JeM Shura, its highest decision-making body. A confidante of Masood Azhar, Jameel frequently visited PoK for recruitment and fundraising. Sources suggest that his family members may have also perished in the airstrike. Jameel was in charge of Markaz Subhan Allah, the JeM headquarters in Bahawalpur, a facility linked to the 2016 Pathankot airbase attack and the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing.
Mohammad Hassan Khan: Involved in Pulwama Attack
Mohammad Hassan Khan, son of JeM operational commander for PoK, Mufti Asghar Khan Kashmiri, was also associated with Indian fugitive Ashiq Nengroo, wanted for the 2019 Pulwama attack. Khan coordinated with JeM operatives in Shakargarh and accompanied his father to shura meetings.
Khalid alias Abu Akasha: Weapon Smuggler
Khalid alias Abu Akasha was involved in numerous terror attacks in J&K and played a crucial role in smuggling weapons from Afghanistan for the LeT. His funeral in Faisalabad, attended by senior Pakistani military officials, highlights his significance within the Pakistani terror infrastructure.
India’s Firm Stance Against Terrorism
These strikes demonstrate India’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and eliminating those who threaten its security. The elimination of these key figures represents a significant setback for terror groups operating in the region.
