The global fight against terrorism is a complex and multifaceted issue, requiring the cooperation of numerous nations across the world. Two key players in this endeavor are India and the United States, who recently teamed up to propose a significant action to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The proposed action targeted a top militant from the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) group, Makki, with the intention of listing him under the UNSC’s Al-Qaeda and ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) Sanctions Committee – also known as the UNSC 1267 Committee. This proposal was met with resistance from China, which has placed a “technical hold” on the motion, an action that can last up to six months.
The United Nation Security Council: An Overview
The UNSC is one of the six main organs established by the UN’s Charter, primarily responsible for maintaining international peace and security. It comprises of 15 members, five of whom are permanent (China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States), and ten non-permanent members who are elected for two-year terms by the General Assembly. As of 2021, India has entered the UNSC as a non-permanent member for the eighth time.
The UNSC 1267 Committee and Listing Procedures
First established in 1999 and strengthened further after the September 2001 attacks, the UNSC 1267 Committee, also known as the Da’esh and Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee, works towards limiting the movement of terrorists. The committee focuses on implementing travel bans, freezing assets, and enforcing arms embargoes for terrorism-related activities.
To list an individual, group, or entity, any member state can submit a proposal along with evidence indicating their involvement in terrorist activities linked to ISIL, Al-Qaeda, or any related groups. If no member objects within five working days, the proposal is adopted. A “technical hold,” however, can be placed to request more information or time for consideration.
Foreign Terrorist Organizations and their Significance
As part of their efforts in combating terrorism, the United States designates certain groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO). This plays a critical role in curtailing support for terrorist activities and pressuring these groups to abandon their involvement in terrorism.
Prominent India-Centric Terror Organizations in Pakistan
Several prominent terror organizations operating out of Pakistan target India. These include Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM), Harakat-ul Jihad Islami (HUJI), Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HUM), Hizb-ul Mujahideen, and Al Qaeda. Most of these organizations have been involved in high-profile attacks and pose a significant threat to regional and global security. All of these organizations are banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, in India.
The recent proposal involving Makki, a top LeT militant, has brought the focus back on these terror organizations and the ongoing international efforts to combat them. Whether successful or not, this initiative signifies the continued commitment of countries like India and the U.S. in the fight against global terrorism under the frameworks provided by institutions like the United Nations.