China Breaks Silence on Pakistan-Backed TRF, Condemns Pahalgam Terror Strike

International News: The deadly terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir, has sent shockwaves through India and the international community. The Pakistan-backed terrorist group, The Resistance Front (TRF), openly claimed responsibility for the attack, which led to the tragic deaths of several innocent tourists. In a significant geopolitical shift, China has now adopted a hardline stance against TRF, aligning itself with the United States.

US Declares TRF a Global Terror Group

Just two days after the attack, the United States officially designated TRF as a global terrorist organization. Along with the designation, Washington imposed economic sanctions and legal restrictions on the group’s leadership and affiliates. This move aligns with the United Nations' global counter-terrorism framework, which aims to isolate and delegitimize terrorist entities on an international scale.

China Supports US, Breaks Silence on Terror

In a notable departure from its past hesitations—especially regarding groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed—China publicly supported the US action against TRF. Speaking at a press conference in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said, “China strongly opposes all forms of terrorism. We condemn the Pahalgam incident and call for strengthened cooperation to combat terrorism across the region.”

Lin emphasized that China would no longer tolerate or defend any terror group, regardless of its origin or backing.

Why the Sudden Shift in China’s Stance on TRF?

The question arises: Why is China, typically a silent player on such issues, now openly condemning TRF, a known offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba?

Key Reasons:

• Global Pressure: The Pahalgam attack involved casualties of foreign tourists, intensifying global scrutiny. China, already facing criticism on multiple fronts, is keen to avoid further damage to its global image.
• Improving Ties with India: Over the past few months, diplomatic backchannels between India and China have shown signs of improvement. Taking a firm stance on TRF allows Beijing to signal goodwill toward New Delhi.
• Easing US Tensions: China is under heavy tariff and technological pressure from the US. By aligning with Washington on terrorism, Beijing aims to build cooperative momentum and soften bilateral tensions.
• Strategic Bloc with Russia: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov recently stated that Russia and China are working to engage India as a key strategic partner. Condemning TRF publicly complements that effort.

What is The Resistance Front (TRF)?

Founded in 2019, TRF was formed through a collaboration between Lashkar-e-Taiba, Indian Mujahideen, and Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI. The group's primary objective is to conduct anti-India operations in Jammu and Kashmir, all while creating a false impression of a local rebellion.

• TRF is not led by a single figurehead, making it harder for intelligence agencies to track and dismantle.
• The group reportedly operates under the direct guidance of Hafiz Saeed and senior ISI officers.
• TRF fighters receive military training in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Following the Pahalgam incident, TRF used social media channels to claim responsibility, exposing not only its involvement but also its growing digital footprint.

Strategic victory for India

The Pahalgam terror attack has turned into a diplomatic flashpoint, drawing clear lines between nations taking a stand against terrorism and those accused of harboring it. With both the US and China aligning against TRF, it marks a rare moment of convergence in global counter-terrorism efforts. For India, it represents a strategic victory in its long-standing campaign to expose and isolate Pakistan-supported terror networks on the global stage.