After years of operating from the shadows, Masood Azhar—the founder of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)—has re-emerged in Pakistan, triggering alarm across Indian intelligence circles and global counterterrorism agencies. According to recent reports, Azhar is now actively rebuilding JeM’s operational network with direct support from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and elements within the Pakistani military. His resurgence comes months after Operation Sindoor, which decimated JeM’s Bahawalpur headquarters and led to the death of several key operatives, including members of Azhar’s own family.
Azhar’s return is being described by Indian intelligence as a “state-supervised resurrection of terror,” with encrypted communications from JeM channels calling for a “new jihad.” His presence in Islamabad, surrounded by armed guards and under police protection, signals a renewed phase of militant activity aimed at destabilizing Kashmir and evading international scrutiny.
📊 Timeline of Masood Azhar’s Activities and JeM Revival
| Date | Event Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 2025 | Operation Sindoor targets JeM HQ | Bahawalpur, Pakistan |
| Mar–Jul 2025 | Azhar remains in hiding | Unknown |
| Aug 2025 | JeM begins digital fundraising worth PKR 3.91 billion | Online platforms |
| Oct 2025 | Azhar’s voice resurfaces on encrypted JeM channels | Islamabad |
| Nov 2025 | ISI-backed revival of JeM confirmed | Pakistan |
The timeline reflects a calculated return to prominence, with strategic use of digital tools and state protection.
🧠 Strategic Objectives Behind Azhar’s Return
| Objective | Implementation Strategy | Threat Level |
|---|---|---|
| Rebuilding Terror Camps | 313 new camps planned across Punjab and PoK | High |
| Digital Fundraising | Use of Pakistani wallets to bypass FATF scrutiny | Severe |
| Recruitment Drive | Targeting youth via encrypted apps and social media | High |
| Creation of Women’s Wing | Mobilizing female operatives for logistics and intel | Emerging |
| Kashmir Destabilization | Renewed infiltration attempts via LoC | Critical |
Azhar’s strategy reflects a hybrid warfare model blending physical camps with cyber radicalization.
📈 JeM’s Post-Operation Sindoor Recovery Metrics
| Parameter | Pre-Operation Sindoor | Post-Revival (Nov 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Fighters | ~1,200 | ~2,800 |
| Training Camps | 87 | 313 (planned) |
| Digital Donations (PKR) | ~1.2 billion | ~3.91 billion |
| Cross-Border Attempts | 14 (2024) | 27 (2025 YTD) |
The data indicates a rapid resurgence, aided by state infrastructure and digital anonymity.
🗣️ Global and Regional Reactions
| Stakeholder | Commentary Summary |
|---|---|
| Indian Intelligence | “Azhar’s revival is a direct threat to national security.” |
| FATF Officials | “Pakistan’s compliance claims are hollow.” |
| UN Counterterrorism Unit | “We are monitoring JeM’s digital footprint.” |
| Pakistani Opposition | “ISI’s support for Azhar undermines democracy.” |
The international community is increasingly skeptical of Pakistan’s counterterrorism commitments.
📌 Conclusion
Masood Azhar’s reappearance and the ISI-backed revival of Jaish-e-Mohammed mark a dangerous escalation in South Asia’s security landscape. With plans to rebuild terror infrastructure, expand recruitment, and exploit digital platforms for fundraising, Azhar’s next move could destabilize the region and challenge global counterterrorism frameworks. As India and its allies prepare to counter this threat, the spotlight remains on Pakistan’s role in enabling militant resurgence under the guise of strategic depth.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available intelligence reports, media coverage, and expert analysis. It is intended for informational and editorial purposes only and does not constitute security or diplomatic advice.
