At least 100 terrorists killed in Indian strikes under Operation Sindoor: Rajnath at all-party meet

PTI, NEW DELHI, MAY 8, 2025 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday told an all-party meeting that at least 100 terrorists were killed in the Indian strikes on terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor, sources said. They said the Defence Minister also informed the leaders that it was an ongoing operation and that India will hit back if Pakistan attacks in the wake of India’s targeted strike.

Chairing the meeting, Singh, in his briefing and then responding to points raised by the leaders of different parties, said India does not want escalation but will give a befitting reply to Pakistan if attacked, the sources added. The Defence Minister said at least 100 people, including hardcore terrorists and their associates, were killed in the Indian strikes. A source quoted him as saying, "It is difficult to give an exact estimate as the operation is still ongoing and we are collating the details. India will give a befitting reply if Pakistan attacks." The operation has achieved its intended objectives, Singh added.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju told reporters after the meeting that it was convened to evolve a broad political consensus on the issue, and leaders showed maturity and did not indulge in bickering. The leaders also shared their concerns over the issue of national security and the safety of all Indians, especially in border areas, but extended all support and affirmed that the nation was united in this fight against terrorism.

In retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said on Thursday that India has no intention to escalate the situation with Pakistan, but if there are military attacks on the country, then it will be met with a "very" firm response. Jaishankar made the remarks at a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

The External Affairs Minister said the "barbaric" Pahalgam terror attack compelled India to carry out strikes on "cross-border" terror infrastructure on Wednesday. "This attack compelled us to respond on May 7 by striking at the cross-border terrorist infrastructure. Our response was targeted and measured," he said. "It is not our intention to escalate the situation. However, if there are military attacks on us, there should be no doubt that it will be met with a very, very firm response," he said.

Jaishankar said that, as a neighbour and close partner, it is important that Iran has a good understanding of the situation. The Iranian Foreign Minister landed in New Delhi around midnight last night on a scheduled visit amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.