Why Did Osama Bin Laden Feel Secure in Pakistan?
India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, recently raised a challenging question about the global fight against terrorism. Highlighting the unsettling fact that Osama Bin Laden, the notorious Al Qaeda leader, managed to live safely for years in a Pakistani military town, Jaishankar stressed the urgent need for the world to unite against terrorism.
Speaking amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions, he underscored how Pakistan had become a refuge for internationally recognized terrorists following the 9/11 attacks, casting a stark light on broader global security concerns.
A Larger Issue Than Bilateral Tensions
Jaishankar dismantled simplistic narratives surrounding the India-Pakistan rivalry, emphasizing that this isn’t just a bilateral issue but a problem that has far-reaching consequences for global peace and security.
“Why did Osama bin Laden feel safe living for years in a Pakistani military town, right next to their equivalent of West Point?” he questioned, challenging the world to reassess the true threats posed by the region.
He warned that unchecked terrorism is a ticking time bomb that could come back to haunt nations worldwide, urging a collective and coordinated response beyond political boundaries.
Engagements with the European Union
These comments surfaced during Jaishankar’s engagements with European Union leaders, including meetings with EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen and Foreign Policy Minister Kaja Kallas. Discussions centered around the burgeoning India-EU Free Trade Agreement, amid a complex geopolitical backdrop where terrorism remains a critical concern.
Reflecting on India’s Historical Context Amid Global Conflicts
In the same discourse, Jaishankar addressed India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, explaining why India refrains from outrightly labeling Russia as the aggressor.
He reminded audiences of India’s own historical difficulties, particularly the post-independence incursions into Kashmir supported by Western countries, highlighting a sense of historical grievance and the nuanced approach India takes due to its experiences.
“If those same countries who were hesitant during India’s time of crisis now advocate for international principles, they should reflect on their own past,” he remarked.
A Call for Dialogue Over Conflict
Jaishankar reinforced India’s belief that war is not a solution to disputes. While India stays neutral and non-prescriptive, it remains deeply involved in promoting peaceful conflict resolution.
“We don’t believe differences can be resolved through war,” he stated, conveying India’s commitment to diplomacy and constructive dialogue over battlefield confrontations.
Conclusion: A Plea for Global Unity Against Terrorism
Through his candid remarks, Dr. S. Jaishankar encapsulated the urgent need for the international community to look beyond short-term divisions and confront terrorism as a shared enemy. Questioning how a figure like Osama Bin Laden could hide within a military stronghold challenges global actors to rethink cooperation on intelligence, security, and counter-terrorism strategies to ensure lasting peace.
