New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has warned Pakistan that India will conduct second and third phases of Op Sindoor if Islamabad doesn't mend its ways on supporting terrorism. Singh was speaking with the Indian diaspora at an event in Morrocco on Sunday where he is on a two-day visit.
Singh reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's earlier statement that the counter-terrorism operation was "just a pause" and could be resumed. He then referred to the Pahalgam attack, emphasising that it is India’s responsibility to reform Pakistan.
'Don't have an option to change our neighbours'
Addressing the Indians in Morocco, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "Our men were killed in Pahalgam after being asked about their religion. I called a meeting and instructed our forces to be prepared for an operation. All the chiefs said they were ready." He added that following the operation, Pakistan declared a ceasefire, expressing a desire for cordial relations with its neighbors. He stated, "Friends can be changed, but neighbors cannot. It is our responsibility to bring our neighbors back on the right path—and we are doing so."
The Defence Minister clarified that Operation Sindoor has been postponed but will be resumed if necessary. Regarding Operation Sindoor, he stated, "We targeted terrorists based on their actions. We did not consider anyone’s religion." He added, "Everyone follows different religions, and we have no objection to that."
Will PoK people ever consider themselves Indians
He also remarked, "PoK will return on its own—why worry? There is a growing demand in PoK. There is no need to invade or seize it. It is ours. In the future, the people of PoK will themselves say, ‘I am also India."
Addressing the Indian community, he concluded, "Our respect, affection, and love for India are natural. No matter in which corner of the world we are residing in, we should never forget our Indian identity. Because we are Indians, our responsibilities are different from others. Even if we are living in Morocco, earning money, and supporting our families, there should be no betrayal of Morocco. This is the character of India." During his visit, the Defence Minister will participate in bilateral talks and discuss various issues related to defence and strategic cooperation.
