Pulwama Attack Aftermath! How PM Modi's Bold Shift in Foreign Policy Shook Pakistan to the Core

The Pulwama Attack of February 14, 2019, was one of the deadliest terrorist strikes in India. A suicide bomber from Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) targeted a CRPF convoy, killing 40 jawans. The incident shook the nation and demanded a strong response.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took immediate action. His foreign policy shifted towards a no-tolerance approach to terrorism. India made it clear that Pakistan would not be allowed to shelter terrorists without consequences.

The Balakot Airstrike: A Game-Changer in Foreign Policy

Just 12 days after the Pulwama Attack, on February 26, 2019, India launched a decisive counterattack. In a pre-dawn operation, the Indian Air Force (IAF) sent 12 Mirage 2000 fighter jets across the Line of Control (LoC). They carried out precision strikes on terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan.

The airstrike was a turning point. It marked the first time India crossed the LoC for an aerial strike since the 1971 war. Reports suggested that over 300 terrorists were eliminated. The air force dropped more than 1,000 kg of explosives on JeM hideouts, sending a strong message to Pakistan.

Pakistan's Denial and India's Diplomatic Victory

Following the Balakot airstrike, Pakistan tried to deny the damage. Its government claimed that the attack had hit an empty area. However, satellite images and intelligence reports proved otherwise. Pakistan’s credibility took a massive hit on the global stage.

India, on the other hand, strengthened its diplomatic position. Nations worldwide condemned the Pulwama Attack and backed India’s right to self-defense. Countries like the United States, France and the UK supported India’s counterterrorism efforts. Pakistan’s reputation as a terror-supporting nation was further exposed.

Security Agencies and the 13,500-Page Charge Sheet

India didn’t stop at the airstrike. Security agencies prepared a 13,500-page charge sheet detailing the Pulwama Attack and its perpetrators. The document exposed Pakistan’s deep-rooted ties with JeM. It contained proof of the attackers’ origins, training camps, and handlers within Pakistan.

The charge sheet was a diplomatic tool. It further isolated Pakistan on international platforms. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) increased pressure on Pakistan to act against terrorism, keeping it on the grey list.

PM Modi’s Bold Approach to Pakistan

Prime Minister Modi’s leadership changed India’s stance on terrorism. Earlier, India followed diplomatic restraint. However, after the Pulwama Attack, the Modi government adopted a proactive approach. The message was clear—any attack on India would be met with a strong and immediate response.

This shift in foreign policy forced Pakistan to reconsider its terror strategies. The Balakot airstrike made it evident that India would not hesitate to strike back. It also set a precedent that terrorism would be countered with direct military action.

The Global Stand Against Terrorism

The Pulwama Attack aftermath strengthened India’s global fight against terrorism. Many countries acknowledged that Pakistan harbored terrorist groups. India’s strong response sent a message worldwide—terrorism would not be tolerated.

Even today, security forces remain vigilant. Any attempt by Pakistan-based terror groups is countered with intelligence and swift action. India continues to expose Pakistan’s terror networks and demand accountability on global platforms.