Abdul Rauf Azhar: Profile, Pakistan Connection & Latest Updates

Who is Abdul Rauf Azhar?

Abdul Rauf Azhar is a high-ranking leader of the banned militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a Pakistan-based terrorist organization active in Kashmir and India. He is the younger brother of JeM founder Masood Azhar and has played a key role in planning major attacks, including:

• 2001 Indian Parliament attack (JeM was a key suspect)

• 2016 Pathankot airbase attack (India blamed JeM)

• 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing (40+ Indian soldiers killed)

Connection with Pakistan

• Designated as a Global Terrorist: The US (since 2010) and UN (since 2019) have sanctioned him for terrorism.

• Operates from Pakistan: Reports suggest he has been protected by Pakistan’s intelligence (ISI) and operates from Bahawalpur, Punjab.

• JeM-Pakistan Military Links: JeM has long been accused of having state support in Pakistan for anti-India operations.

Latest Updates (2024)

1. US Bounty on His Head (Updated 2023)

   • The US renewed a $3 million reward for info leading to his arrest.

   • Pakistan has not acted despite global pressure.

2. India’s Extradition Demand (2024)

   • India has repeatedly demanded Pakistan hand him over, but Islamabad denies his presence.

3. JeM’s Continued Activities

   • 2024 Intel Reports: JeM is regrouping in PoK & Punjab (Pakistan) with new recruits.

   • Suspected Role in Kashmir Attacks: Indian agencies blame JeM for recent IED blasts.

4. Pakistan’s Crackdown (or Lack Thereof)

   • Pakistan officially bans JeM but has not arrested Azhar.

   • FATF pressure has reduced, allowing JeM to operate more freely.

Why This Matters?

• India-Pakistan Tensions: His presence fuels cross-border terrorism allegations.

• US-Pakistan Relations: Washington criticizes Pakistan’s inaction against JeM.

• Kashmir Security Threat: JeM remains a major threat to Indian forces.

📌 Key Questions

❓ Will Pakistan ever arrest him? (Unlikely without extreme US pressure.)
❓ Is JeM still active in Kashmir? (Yes, but with fewer large-scale attacks.)
❓ Will the US take unilateral action? (Drones? Raids? Unclear.)

Want more details on JeM, ISI links, or Kashmir militancy? Ask below! 🔍