Hindu Editorial Analysis : 14-November-2023

In recent times, parallels have been drawn between Hamas’ attack on Israel, known as Operation ‘Al-Aqsa Storm,’ and the Mumbai attacks in 2008, often referred to as 26/11. These events hold significance in the context of how nations respond to acts of terrorism and the broader implications for international relations.

Attack on Israel & the Palestinian Issue

Background:

  • Hamas launched Operation ‘Al-Aqsa Storm.’
  • Israel responded with Operation Iron Sword.

Outcome:

  • The attack coincided with a potential path to peace between Saudis and Israelis.
  • Hamas aimed to bring attention to the Palestinian cause.
  • Israel’s forceful response brought the Palestinian issue into the international spotlight.
Mumbai Attacks & India’s ‘No’ Response to Counter-Terror

Background:

  • India faced the Mumbai attacks in 2008 (26/11).
  • The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, refrained from immediate retaliation.

Outcome:

  • The 26/11 attacks had global implications.
  • India’s ‘No’ response was praised for restraint.
  • India-U.S. Civil Nuclear agreement operationalized just before the attacks.
  • International leaders condemned the attacks, acknowledging India as a responsible nuclear power.
  • Amid the global financial crisis, war would have been disastrous for India.
India’s Air Strikes on Balakot
  • India’s ‘No’ response post-26/11 doesn’t diminish the importance of later air strikes on Balakot.
  • Air strikes showcased improved defense capabilities, a strong economy, and solid international partnerships.
  • Carefully calibrated to signal that terrorism would have consequences.
India’s Present Challenges
  1. Kashmir:
    • Improved security post-Article 370 abrogation but new challenges like lone-wolf attacks and drone usage.
  2. Sikh Separatism:
    • Resurgence of sentiments in Punjab.
  3. Cross-Border Narco-Terror Networks:
    • Growing drug abuse fueled by cross-border networks.
  4. Terror Drones:
    • Inadequate preparedness to tackle terror drones.
  5. Formalization of Terrorism:
    • Concerns over states using non-state actors for their objectives.
  6. Good & Bad Terrorism Approach:
    • Pakistan’s inconsistent policy towards different terrorist groups.
Suggestions to Counter Terror
  1. Pragmatic Approach:
    • Recalibrate attention between northern and western borders for better security focus.
  2. Coordinated Efforts:
    • Counter-terrorism agencies worldwide need better coordination in intelligence and tactics.
  3. No Good or Bad Terrorism:
    • Leaders should refrain from categorizing terrorists as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ based on national preferences.
  4. Reactivating CCIT Proposal:
    • Revive the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism proposal for global cooperation.
  5. Newer Patterns of Terror:
    • Address emerging patterns like ‘enabled’ and ‘remote control’ terrorism.
Why In News

The parallels are recently being drawn by experts between Hamas’ recent attack on Israel and the Mumbai attacks in 2008 (known as 26/11), highlighting the concerning patterns of indiscriminate violence targeting civilians in both instances.

MCQs about Navigating Terrorism: A Comparative Lens and Strategic Roadmap

  1. What was the operation name used by Hamas in the recent attack on Israel?
    A. Operation Iron Sword
    B. Operation Balakot
    C. Operation ‘Al-Aqsa Storm’
    D. Operation Mumbai Resolve
    Correct Answer: C. Operation ‘Al-Aqsa Storm’
    Explanation: Hamas named the operation ‘Al-Aqsa Storm’ during the recent attack on Israel.
  2. How did India respond immediately after the Mumbai attacks in 2008?
    A. Immediate military retaliation
    B. No response
    C. Diplomatic negotiations
    D. Economic sanctions on Pakistan
    Correct Answer: B. No response
    Explanation: India, led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, showed restraint and refrained from immediate military retaliation.
  3. What was the outcome of India’s air strikes on Balakot?
    A. Escalation of tensions with Pakistan
    B. Improved defense capabilities
    C. Economic downturn in India
    D. Weakening of international partnerships
    Correct Answer: B. Improved defense capabilities
    Explanation: The air strikes on Balakot showcased India’s improved defense capabilities.
  4. According to the essay, what is a suggested strategy to counter terrorism globally?
    A. Treating some terrorists as ‘good’ and others as ‘bad’
    B. Reactivating the proposal for the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT)
    C. Relying solely on military retaliation
    D. Prioritizing economic sanctions against terrorist-supporting nations
    Correct Answer: B. Reactivating the proposal for the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT)
    Explanation: Reactivating the proposal for CCIT as a strategy to counter terrorism globally.

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