KKN Gurugram Desk | Following India’s high-precision airstrikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan, a wave of reactions has poured in from across the political spectrum. One of the most notable responses came from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who took to social media to praise the Indian Armed Forces for their courage and decisive action. His brief but powerful message has added weight to the national sentiment of pride and unity in the aftermath of the military operation, named Operation Sindoor.

This article explores Rahul Gandhi’s statement, the broader political reactions, and the strategic significance of India’s latest military move.

What Did Rahul Gandhi Say After the Strikes?

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Rahul Gandhi wrote:

“We are proud of our armed forces.”

The message, though succinct, reflects a rare moment of political consensus in support of the Indian military. Rahul Gandhi did not delve into political commentary but chose instead to stand firmly behind the nation’s defense forces, aligning with the prevailing national mood.

Operation Sindoor: Background of the Airstrikes

On the night of May 6-7, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine high-profile terrorist camps located across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, where 26 Indian civilians were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists.

Key highlights of Operation Sindoor:

• Over 100 terrorists reportedly neutralized

• Camps affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed were destroyed

• The strikes were carried out with precision-guided missiles

• Indian forces avoided civilian casualties and restricted damage to military targets

Why Rahul Gandhi’s Statement Matters

Rahul Gandhi has been a frequent critic of the ruling BJP government, particularly on issues of national security and foreign policy. However, in this case, his unambiguous support for the armed forces without politicizing the event reflects a mature and responsible political stance.

Such bipartisan support:

• Strengthens national morale

• Sends a message of unity to adversaries

• Reinforces confidence in India’s defense readiness

Opposition Stands United on National Security

In addition to Rahul Gandhi, several other opposition leaders, including:

• Sharad Pawar (NCP)

• Mamata Banerjee (TMC)

• Arvind Kejriwal (AAP)

…also expressed support for the armed forces, although their tone varied. The general sentiment has been one of solidarity with the soldiers, reflecting that national security remains above political rivalry.

Ruling Party’s Response to Opposition Support

The BJP leadership welcomed the support from across the aisle. Senior leaders like Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah acknowledged the united front and reiterated that India’s security operations are carried out in the interest of national integrity, beyond party lines.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who reportedly monitored Operation Sindoor in real-time, has not yet responded directly to Rahul Gandhi’s post but has thanked the armed forces for their “bravery and precision.”

Public Reaction on Social Media

Rahul Gandhi’s post went viral within minutes of being published. Public response was largely positive, with users appreciating:

• His non-partisan tone

• His support for the military

• The absence of political blame games

Some social media trends that followed:

• #OperationSindoor

• #ProudOfIndianArmy

• #RahulGandhi

• #BipartisanSupport

Strategic Importance of Operation Sindoor

From a defense perspective, Operation Sindoor represents:

• A shift in India’s counter-terrorism doctrine: proactive and preemptive

• A message to terror networks and their sponsors that India will not tolerate cross-border terrorism

• A reinforcement of India’s military readiness and technological superiority

These strikes also contribute to India’s standing in global forums, highlighting its resolve to fight terrorism without external support.

International Reactions to the Strikes

While countries like the United States, France, and Israel have expressed support for India’s right to self-defense, others like China and Turkey have called for “restraint.”

However, no global power has openly condemned India’s actions—indicating broad diplomatic backing, especially in light of the Pahalgam massacre.

Rahul Gandhi and National Security: A Changing Narrative?

Rahul Gandhi’s recent endorsement of the armed forces is being viewed as part of a broader image transformation. Traditionally seen as critical of government-led security decisions, his recent gesture might:

• Help reshape public perception of his leadership on defense issues

• Strengthen the Congress party’s position on national unity

• Attract moderate and fence-sitting voters ahead of upcoming elections

Rahul Gandhi’s praise for the Indian Army after Operation Sindoor is more than a routine political statement. It marks a moment where national interest transcended party politics, reflecting a unified stance in the face of external threats.

With India asserting its strategic and military might, and the political class rising above divisions to support the armed forces, the message is clear: India is united against terrorism—both in word and in action.