Israel has announced the banning of the terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, marking a momentous milestone as the world remembers the 15th anniversary of the Mumbai terror attacks. This action, which Israel hailed as a symbol of remembering, designates Lashkar-e-Taiba as a “deadly” and “reprehensible” terror organization.
It is noteworthy that Israel took the initiative on its own, without official permission from the Indian government. Lashkar-e-Taiba has been added to the Israeli list of banned terrorist groups after all required processes and inspections have been fulfilled, according to an official press release from the Israel Embassy in India.
Israel’s decision to include Lashkar-e-Taiba on the list is consistent with its policy of including only terror organizations that actively operate against Israel or its interests, akin to globally recognized designations by the UN Security Council or the US State Department. The press release went on to say, “Israel ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs have jointly worked in the last few months towards an expedited and extraordinary listing of the Lashkar -e- Taiba organization on this date, to highlight the importance of a Unified Global Front in combating terrorism.”
The press release emphasized the gravity of Lashkar-e-Taiba’s actions, holding the terror organization accountable for the murder of hundreds of Indian civilians and others. It particularly referenced the heinous actions on November 26, 2008, during the Mumbai attacks, which continue to echo through peace-seeking nations and societies.
Expressing solidarity, the release conveyed Israel’s sincere condolences to all victims of terrorism, survivors, and bereaved families of the Mumbai attacks, including those in Israel. The statement concluded with a message of unity, stating, “We stand with you united in the hope for a better peaceful future.”
The 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, orchestrated by 10 gunmen connected to Lashkar-e-Taiba, unfolded through multiple locations in the southern part of Mumbai. The attackers, armed with automatic weapons and hand grenades, targeted civilians at places like the Chhatrapati Shivaji railway station, the Leopold Cafe, hospitals, and theatres. While most of the attacks were quelled within hours, three locations—Nariman House, and the luxury hotels Oberoi Trident and Taj Mahal Palace & Tower—witnessed prolonged hostage situations. The events of November 26, 2008, left an indelible mark on the global collective memory.
