India Increase Pakistan Border Security Over Fears of Hamas-Style Attack

Defense News ,India :- India has fortified its defenses along the de facto border with Pakistan in the disputed Kashmir region, citing concerns about potential surprise attacks by militants inspired by the successful infiltration of Israel by the Palestinian Hamas movement. The military aims to deploy a drone defense system along some border areas by May, with continuous border monitoring becoming a priority due to ongoing tensions with neighboring China and Pakistan, particularly along the Himalayas.

The Indian Army spokesperson informed Newsweek, "The innovative tactics used by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel have raised alarms globally." Measures have been implemented along the Line of Control and International Border Sectors to thwart any potential malicious attempts from across the Western Border.

The Line of Control, spanning nearly 500 miles, divides nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan across Kashmir, akin to the smaller barrier separating Israel and the Hamas-held Gaza Strip. The region has witnessed frequent insurgent activity, high-profile clashes, and all-out wars.

In response to the heightened threat perception, the Indian Army has established robust Counter Infiltration and Terror Grids in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Adequate troops and advanced technology are deployed dynamically to counter emerging drone threats.

Security measures in India-administered Kashmir escalated after Prime Minister Narendra Modi revoked the region's semi-autonomous status in August 2019. The move, aimed at quelling a longstanding insurgency, sparked international controversy and drew ire from Pakistan.

Accusing Islamabad of sponsoring militias across the Line of Control, the Indian Army spokesperson expressed skepticism about Pakistan's attempts to draw connections between the Kashmiri and Palestinian struggles for independence. Both issues share historical roots, stemming from the 1947 and 1948 withdrawals of the United Kingdom from colonial holdings.

While India historically supports the Palestinian cause, it has strengthened ties with Israel since 1992. Pakistan, not recognizing Israel, aligns its support for Palestinians with the Kashmir issue.

In an interview with Newsweek, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Munir Akram, emphasized the historical intertwining of the Palestinian and Kashmir causes, centered around the principle of self-determination.

Tensions persist as India accuses Pakistan of orchestrating militant activity, while Pakistan accuses India of waging a "hybrid war." The region faces heightened security concerns amid a surge in militant activities, with Iran and Pakistan grappling with deadly attacks by groups pushing separatist and Islamist agendas.

As the Middle East experiences security challenges, Indian and Pakistani officials express concerns about potential second-order effects in their region. The Indian Army remains vigilant, acknowledging the impact of international security developments and implementing a comprehensive government approach to address emerging challenges.