Masood Azhar’s Sister Oversees Female Terror Recruitment in PoK

Reports from intelligence agencies highlight a significant resurgence of terror activity orchestrated by Pakistan in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The Jaish-e-Mohammed terror network, under the guidance of a handler named Munir, is allegedly being revitalized to launch a new campaign of attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, reminiscent of the 2019 Pulwama incident. This includes the reactivation of dormant training facilities and the coordinated movement of terrorists across the PoK region. High-level strategic meetings have taken place in Muzaffarabad and Bhimber, with senior officers from the Pakistani Army and ISI collaborating with leaders from Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizbul Mujahideen, and other militant groups. The primary objective of these meetings was to re-establish terror training infrastructure and facilitate cross-border infiltration. A disturbing new dimension to this threat is the systematic recruitment and training of women for militant roles. An intercepted invitation to a recruitment drive in Karachi on November 9th, addressed to “all daughters of Islam,” prominently features “Masood”—believed to be Masood Azhar—as the chief guest. Saeeda Azhar, Masood Azhar’s sister, is reportedly tasked with indoctrinating women and preparing them for a “female fidayeen force,” with the potential for them to be used in suicide attacks. Munir’s efforts to reactivate old camps and the repositioning of Pakistan’s Border Action Teams (BAT) indicate a well-planned resurgence. This renewed push is viewed by experts as a clear indication of Pakistan’s continued commitment to supporting cross-border terrorism, despite previous counter-terrorism operations. Indian security forces are closely monitoring the situation, anticipating a concerted effort to foment instability in Jammu and Kashmir.