Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has firmly clarified that the ongoing counter-terror operation, named Operation Sindoor, has not been suspended due to any external intervention or third-party mediation. Speaking at the Hyderabad Liberation Day celebrations, he dismissed claims suggesting that the operation was halted following foreign influence, stating that the operation is merely "paused" and will resume if any future terrorist attacks occur.

Operation Sindoor was launched in response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, where terrorists targeted civilians based on their faith. The operation involved decisive and targeted strikes on terrorist hideouts across the border in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, delivering a strong message that India maintains zero tolerance towards terrorism. Singh credited the Indian Armed Forces for their success and resilience in this operation, emphasizing that India's patience is a strength, not a weakness, and the country is ready to choose hard power when diplomatic negotiations fail.

Rejecting claims by some foreign leaders of intervening to stop the Indo-Pak conflict, the Defence Minister underscored that India's national security decisions are sovereign and independent. He also noted that leaders from Pakistan, including its Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, confirmed that India does not accept any third-party role in their bilateral conflict resolution.

Singh further highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India has demonstrated its growing military prowess and strategic clarity through previous actions like the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot air strikes. These operations have shown India's capability to confront terrorism head-on and defend its sovereignty without external dictations.

The Defence Minister also addressed misinformation about the operation's halt, warning that Operation Sindoor would resume immediately should Pakistan or any terrorist groups orchestrate further attacks. He reaffirmed that India writes its own script in matters of national security and does not take dictation from anyone. Singh’s remarks send a strong message to adversaries that India's response to terrorism is unwavering and that the country's sovereignty and security decisions are firmly in its own hands.

This clarification from the Defence Minister is crucial in dispelling narratives that undermine India's strategic autonomy and in reinforcing the country's commitment to combating terrorism decisively and independently, while also maintaining a readiness to resume operations whenever necessary to protect its citizens and interests.