India will never bow to nuclear blackmail: EAM Jaishankar's strong message amid Operation Sindoor

India will never give in to nuclear blackmail, said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday. The remark comes as New Delhi ramps up its diplomatic messaging amid the backdrop of Operation Sindoor. His comments, delivered during a high-level address, underlined India's unwavering stance on national security and zero tolerance toward terror-backed coercion.

“It is imperative that those who sponsor and utilise the services of terrorism pay a high cost,” Jaishankar added, signaling a firm diplomatic and strategic approach to counterterrorism, particularly aimed at actors who leverage nuclear posturing alongside cross-border extremism.

While not naming any country directly, the remarks come in the wake of increasing geopolitical tensions and are seen as a veiled reference to Pakistan and its continued rhetoric around nuclear deterrence alongside proxy terror threats.

Jaishankar also emphasised India’s larger place in global affairs, saying, “India is a rare civilisational state reclaiming its rightful place in the comity of nations.” The assertion reflects India’s growing geopolitical ambitions and confidence on the world stage, bolstered by its economic growth, strategic partnerships, and leadership in the Global South.

Operation Sindoor was launched to in retaliation to Pakistan's Pahalgam attack which killed 26 people in Kashmir on April 22, 2025. During the operation, India struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir two weeks later, which triggered a four-day military standoff with Pakistan.