Pak ISI eyeing Hamas tactics to revive terror networks in Kashmir, reveals intel
Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is trying to leverage Hamas-linked networks and the Gaza conflict to revive its terror ecosystem targeting Jammu and Kashmir, according to
Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is trying to leverage Hamas-linked networks and the Gaza conflict to revive its terror ecosystem targeting Jammu and Kashmir, according to intelligence inputs accessed by India Today. The intelligence assessment flags a possible convergence of Hamas-linked propaganda, Pakistan-based terror groups, concealed weapons and efforts to radicalise local youth. The inputs suggest that Pakistan is studying operational methods associated with Hamas and seeking to adapt elements of those tactics for groups operating against India. Read Full Story ISI STUDYING HAMAS-STYLE OPERATIONAL METHODS According to the intelligence assessment, the ISI is seeking to expose cadres of the Punjabi faction of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) to operational methods associated with Hamas, including coordinated infiltration, mobile logistics and urban-assault techniques. The inputs further suggest that Pakistan-based groups could seek reciprocal exposure to Hamas cadres in areas such as maritime operations.
The intelligence agencies identify Rawalakot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) as an important platform for interactions involving Hamas-linked representatives and Pakistan-based extremist groups. The assessment refers to a February 5, 2025 conference in Rawalakot organised around Kashmir and the Hamas-led Gaza conflict, where Hamas-linked figures appeared alongside representatives associated with LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). GAZA CONFLICT BEING USED FOR RECRUITMENT, RADICALISATION Indian intelligence inputs indicate that the strategy is also aimed at reviving dormant support networks and online radicalisation by exploiting the emotional impact of the Gaza conflict. According to sources, security agencies are particularly examining the attempts to reach young people through social media, religious platforms and propaganda that portrays militancy as an answer to political and social grievances. The intelligence inputs also highlight the reported circulation of Turkish-origin 9mm Zigana pistols among terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the assessment, the compact weapons are being used by underground operatives as they can be concealed more easily than conventional firearms. Security forces have recovered Turkish-made pistols during previous counter-terror operations, including in Srinagar and the Poonch-Rajouri region. POONCH-RAJOURI LINK UNDER SCRUTINY The intelligence inputs point to recoveries of compact Turkish-origin firearms from terror hideouts in the Poonch-Rajouri sector during operations in 2023-24. The assessment suggests that the availability of lightweight weapons is being used to facilitate the movement of small terror cells through difficult terrain while reducing their logistical footprint. A key element of the assessment is the suggestion that the ISI may be seeking greater control over the terror infrastructure in POK. According to the inputs, such a strategy could reduce the dependence of Pakistan’s intelligence establishment on traditional local networks that have historically been involved in terror-related activities in POK.
The BriefWire