JeM chief detention a result of ‘intense international pressure’: Defence expert

New Delhi: Reacting to the reported detention of Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) chief Maulana Masood Azhar in the Pathankot terrorist attack, noted defence expert P.K. Sehgal on Wednesday said it was a result of intense international pressure, primarily by the United States.

“I think this is the result of intense international pressure, primarily by America. And, because of this intense pressure, the U.S. also cancelled the F-16 deal, and this pressure is continuing after what you heard in President Barak Obama’s address,” he said.

“In addition, a similar pressure is being put on Pakistan by the United Nations Secretary General, plus all the 15 members of the UN Security Council, permanent as well as semi-permanent,” he added.

“We must continue to put this pressure, using Indian and foreign media, all social networking sites and all modern connectivity sites to reach out very-very strongly to Pakistani people, the Pakistani judiciary, and the Pakistani Media,” said Sehgal.

He, however, said the greatest existing threat to Pakistan was not from India or anybody else, but from its own home grown terrorists.

“This gives Pakistan an opportunity to deal with them, as they may not have the courage to deal with LeT or JuD, but JeM, which has been officially banned since 2002-03, is a different kettle of fish and they have an opportunity, at least, to subdue one of them. Whether they are going to do it or they not going to do it is something that only time will tell,” he added.

Pakistan has detained several militants belonging to JeM, including Masood Azhar, and sealed its offices, reported Pakistan media. (ANI)