Mon Feb 23 16:04:14 UTC 2026: ### Jaish-e-Mohammad Commander Saifullah Killed in Kishtwar, Ending Two-Year Anti-Terror Operation “Trashi”
The Story:
Security forces in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir have neutralized three Pakistani terrorists, including Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) commander Saifullah, concluding Operation Trashi. This anti-terror operation, lasting nearly two years, specifically targeted seven JeM terrorists who infiltrated J&K in April 2024. The operation, described as the longest of its kind in three decades of militancy, involved a coordinated effort by the Army, J&K Police, and CRPF, utilizing all available resources, including sniffer dogs and drones.
Key Points:
* Operation Trashi targeted seven JeM terrorists who crossed the border in April 2024.
* The operation lasted nearly two years and involved a joint effort by the Army, J&K Police, and CRPF.
* Three terrorists were killed in earlier phases in April 2025, and one was killed on February 4, 2026.
* The final operation on February 21-22, 2026, resulted in the elimination of the remaining three terrorists, including commander Saifullah.
* The terrorists were referred to as the “Azrael Group” by locals.
* No casualties were reported among the security forces, except for an injury to a sniffer dog named Tyson.
* Three AK rifles and other war-like stores were recovered.
* Only three local militants are currently active in Kishtwar district.
Key Takeaways:
- Operation Trashi demonstrates the sustained commitment of Indian security forces to counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir.
- The successful culmination of the operation highlights the importance of inter-agency coordination and intelligence gathering.
- The elimination of foreign terrorists contributes to the overall reduction of militancy in the region.
- Public support and cooperation are crucial for the success of counter-terrorism operations.
- The focus now shifts to neutralizing the remaining local militants and dismantling the terror ecosystem.
First Piper 