US ‘Expects’ Pakistan To Target Terrorists Behind Indian Air

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his Pakistani counterpart, Modi’s office said in a statement, saying the Indian prime minister called on Pakistan “to take firm and immediate action” against those linked to the attackers.

Modi strongly emphasized the need for Pakistan to take firm and immediate action against the organisations and individuals responsible for the attack, said diplomatic sources.

As the Indian Army’s anti-terror operation in Pathankot continued for a third night on Monday, India, undeterred by the attack, plans to hold the Foreign Secretary (FS)-level talks with Pakistan in Islamabad on January 15.

The Pathankot attack was claimed Monday by the United Jihad Council, an umbrella group for jihadist outfits fighting in the Indian-occupied Kashmir.

“The attack on Pathankot Air Base from Kashmiri Mujhadeen carries a message to India that no security establishment and garrison are out of reach from militants”.

A fifth terrorist was killed on the third day of the attack and at least one attacker remained in the complex, as troops worked to secure the sprawling compound, according to a military official. Report says that a total of six terrorists have been killed so far.

The two prime ministers talked on the phone Tuesday. The assault came just days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise visit to Lahore to meet Pakistani leader Nawaz Sharif.

Kirby added, “We urge all the countries in the region to work together to disrupt and dismantle terrorist networks and to bring justice to the perpetrators of this particular attack”.

Radio Pakistan reported that Sharif telephoned Modi “and conveyed sorrow and grief on the losses in (the) Pathankot terror attack”. NIA chief Sharad Kumar today said there was little doubt that the attackers were from Pakistan.

Meanwhile, the combing operations are still underway at the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot.

“We have extended our deepest condolences to the government and people of India”, he added. “Especially in light of what we’ve said, an attack on a diplomatic outpost – that needs to be protected”.