US declares The Resistance Front, outfit behind Pahalgam attack, as foreign terrorist organisation; India hails move

The United States has officially labeled The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). The decision came shortly after the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed five Indian soldiers. TRF, a Pakistan-backed group, claimed responsibility for the attack.

India responded swiftly to the announcement, calling it a “timely and necessary step” in the fight against cross-border terrorism.

Why the US Took Action Against TRF

The US State Department released a statement confirming the move. The department linked TRF to multiple terror attacks in Kashmir. Officials said the group operates under the command of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), which already appears on the US terror list.

A senior official explained, “TRF is just a new face for Lashkar. The group tries to hide its links to avoid sanctions.” The US said this designation blocks the group’s access to American assets and cuts off financial support through global networks.

The US believes this step will restrict the group’s ability to raise funds, recruit members, and plan attacks beyond borders.

India Responds with Strong Support

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) welcomed the decision. It described the US action as “an important acknowledgment of India’s long-standing concerns.”

In a press statement, the MEA said:

“This move by the US government shows the growing global unity against Pakistan-based terror networks. It highlights the need to dismantle these groups, which have caused instability in the region for decades.”

Indian officials also pointed out that TRF has played a key role in spreading violence in Jammu and Kashmir. They believe the US action will boost India’s efforts to hold Pakistan accountable on international platforms.

A Closer Look at TRF’s Activities

TRF emerged in 2019, soon after India removed Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir. The group calls itself a local resistance movement. However, Indian intelligence agencies say it receives weapons, training, and funding from Pakistan’s ISI and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

TRF has taken responsibility for several attacks in Kashmir. It uses encrypted messaging apps to recruit local youth and share propaganda. Security officials believe TRF tries to appear homegrown to dodge international criticism.

The Pahalgam ambush on July 8, 2025, proved to be a turning point. TRF militants attacked an army convoy, killing five soldiers. The attack shocked the region and drew strong condemnation from the global community. Security agencies confirmed TRF’s role within hours.

What the US Designation Means

By declaring TRF a Foreign Terrorist Organization, the US imposed several restrictions. American banks must freeze any TRF-linked assets. Citizens and companies can no longer conduct business with the group. TRF members also face travel bans and possible arrest if found in the US.

The move strengthens cooperation between India and the US. Both nations have worked closely on counter-terrorism for years. This designation gives Indian authorities more legal ground to request action against TRF members hiding abroad.

India also plans to push for TRF’s designation at the United Nations. Officials hope other countries will now take similar steps and isolate the group further.

Experts Say the Step Sends a Strong Message

Many security experts praised the US decision. Lt. Gen. (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain said:

“When a country like the United States takes action, it carries weight. This sends a message to nations that support terror networks. TRF will now find it harder to operate, raise money, or recruit fighters.”

Other analysts noted that TRF has grown more active in recent years. The group focuses on online radicalization through social media and encrypted chats. The new US restrictions could weaken these efforts.

International Pressure on Pakistan May Rise

India has long accused Pakistan of providing safe havens to terror outfits. TRF, though relatively new, fits into the pattern of proxy groups used by Pakistan to destabilize Kashmir. By targeting these groups diplomatically, India hopes to increase global pressure on Islamabad.

Indian officials believe this is the right time to act. With TRF now on the US watchlist, Pakistan faces more scrutiny. India plans to raise the issue in forums like the UN Security Council and FATF (Financial Action Task Force).

Final Thoughts: What Lies Ahead

The US move marks a shift in how the world views proxy terror outfits like TRF. These groups no longer hide behind rebranding or false identities. The designation also reflects growing trust between India and the US on security matters.

For now, the focus remains on preventing future attacks. Indian forces have stepped up intelligence operations in Kashmir. Meanwhile, India continues its diplomatic push to expose terror networks backed by foreign powers.

The Pahalgam attack left the country in mourning. But the US action against TRF may offer a path forward—through stronger alliances, legal tools, and a united global stance against terrorism.