Pakistan Using Proxy Networks to Shift Terrorism Blame to Kashmiris, Says EFSAS Director
In a significant address delivered in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, EFSAS Director Junaid Qureshi has made serious allegations against Pakistan's ongoing strategy in the region. According to Qureshi, Pakistan has been systematically attempting to undermine peace and stability through carefully crafted narratives designed to shift responsibility for terrorist activities onto local Kashmiris.
Masking Pakistan's Involvement Through Strategic Narratives
Qureshi specifically referenced a recent attack in Delhi as a prime example of this troubling pattern. He explained that such incidents are being utilized by Pakistan to create false impressions at international forums while maintaining plausible deniability. This approach allows Pakistan to distance itself from direct involvement while continuing to sponsor destabilizing activities in the region.
The EFSAS director emphasized that Pakistan has faced repeated international criticism for its sponsorship of terrorism, making these proxy tactics increasingly necessary for Islamabad's foreign policy objectives. By shifting blame to local actors, Pakistan aims to deflect attention from its own documented role in regional instability.
Evolving Methods and Exploitation of Vulnerable Groups
Qureshi issued a stark warning about the likely evolution of these methods in the coming years. He suggested that Pakistan may expand its efforts to exploit vulnerable populations within Kashmir, potentially including the utilization of existing drug networks and other criminal enterprises.
The strategic objectives behind these evolving tactics are twofold:
- To further destabilize the Kashmir region through indirect means
- To create additional layers of separation between Pakistan's government and terrorist activities
This approach represents a sophisticated form of hybrid warfare that combines traditional proxy relationships with information operations designed to shape international perceptions.
International Context and Regional Implications
The allegations come at a time when Pakistan faces increasing international scrutiny for its approach to counterterrorism. Qureshi's statements highlight the complex challenges facing regional security stakeholders who must contend with:
- Non-state actors operating across borders
- Sophisticated disinformation campaigns
- The weaponization of vulnerable populations for geopolitical objectives
As the situation continues to develop, experts warn that these proxy relationships and narrative-shifting tactics could have significant implications for long-term peace and stability in South Asia. The international community's ability to accurately attribute responsibility for terrorist acts becomes increasingly complicated when multiple layers of plausible deniability are established through such sophisticated networks.
