The recent death of Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Musa, also known as Asif Fauji, has led security agencies to refocus their efforts on foreign terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir. This development comes as intelligence sources estimate that approximately 35 to 40 foreign terrorists remain active in the region, predominantly of Pakistani origin. The ongoing operations are also scrutinising local support networks that assist these foreign militants.

The presence of foreign terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir has considerably decreased since 2019, when estimates indicated that there were around 300 to 400 such individuals. Current reports suggest that the number of local terrorists has approached near-zero levels, prompting authorities to adapt their strategies. The emphasis has now shifted from dismantling extensive terrorist organisations to tackling smaller foreign terrorist cells and disrupting the local networks that support their operations.

Strategic Ops Against Terrorist Modules

Security agencies categorise infiltrating foreign terrorists as Foreign Terrorists (FTs), with small cells becoming the primary targets of counter-terrorism operations. Musa had been under surveillance for an extended period, and a coordinated operation involving the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Army, and Central Armed Police Forces led to his elimination in Gurwat Kalan, Budgam.

His death follows the killing of three other senior Lashkar commanders since 2022, contributing to a weakened leadership structure within the organisation. The three other commanders, Junaid Bhat, Suleman, and Yasir, were killed in separate operations between December 2024 and September 2026.

Reportedly, all four commanders played roles in various significant terror attacks in the region. These include notable incidents such as the Halan attack in August 2023 and the Shiv Khori attack in June 2024. The successive removal of these commanders marks a strategic shift for security forces, as they aim to locate foreign militants hiding in challenging terrains throughout the Valley.

Intelligence sources indicate that foreign terrorists may be using remote forests and mountainous areas to evade detection. While the security apparatus is focused on locating these operatives, there is an emphasis on dismantling the logistical support structures that facilitate their activities. Multiple districts, including Kulgam and Pulwama, are under scrutiny for potential terrorist presence.

Challenges from Local Support Networks

The Over Ground Worker (OGW) network poses an ongoing challenge for security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir. Local handlers are believed to assist foreign terrorists by providing shelter, transportation, and other necessary support. In light of this, security forces are intensifying efforts to identify and break down these networks, as reducing local assistance is critical in limiting the operational capabilities of foreign militants.

In 2024, security forces reportedly eliminated 68 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, of which 42 were identified as foreign operatives. These figures include terrorists killed during infiltration attempts across the Line of Control as well as those neutralised during internal operations in the Valley. The evolving nature of counter-terrorism strategies emphasises not only direct combat but also the importance of disrupting the underlying support systems.

Since 2019, enhanced coordination and intelligence sharing among the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Central Armed Police Forces have strengthened counter-terror operations in the region. Efforts focus on targeting terror financing, weapon supply routes, and communication networks in addition to direct engagements.

Though the number of terrorists has reportedly declined, agencies remain vigilant against attempts by Pakistan-based organisations to infiltrate and form new operational cells. Musa’s elimination forms part of Operation Sheruwali, initiated in May 2026 to combat foreign terrorists and their support structures in Jammu and Kashmir.

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