WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — A new report by the Congressional Research Service has renewed global attention on Pakistan’s role in regional security, stating that several terrorist groups continue to operate from its territory and pose a threat to India. The report highlights that Pakistan remains a base for multiple extremist organizations. These groups target India, Afghanistan, and even Pakistan itself. The findings raise fresh concerns about terrorism in South Asia and its wider global impact.
The Congressional Research Service report says Pakistan still hosts several India-focused militant groups. Among them is Lashkar-e-Taiba, responsible for the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Another key group is Jaish-e-Mohammed, linked to the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament. The report states that these organizations continue to operate from Pakistani soil. They maintain training networks and support systems. They also plan and coordinate attacks from within the country. Experts say this ongoing presence strains India-Pakistan relations. It also raises concerns among global security agencies.
The report also points to a surge in terrorism inside Pakistan. After years of decline, violence has increased sharply. Terror-related deaths fell to 365 in 2019. Since then, the numbers have risen each year. By 2025, fatalities reached 4,001. This marks the highest level in more than a decade. The report describes Pakistan as the country most affected by terrorism in recent years. Analysts link this rise to changes in the region. The return of the Taliban in Afghanistan in 2021 played a key role. It gave momentum to several militant groups operating across borders.
The report groups terrorist organizations into five categories. These include global groups, Afghanistan-focused groups, India- and Kashmir-focused outfits, domestic militants, and sectarian groups. Most of these organizations follow Islamist extremist ideology. This shared belief system helps them cooperate and expand their reach.
Among global networks, Al Qaeda continues to operate in the region. Its core leadership has weakened, but it still works with allied groups. Another major threat is Islamic State-Khorasan Province. This group has between 4,000 and 6,000 fighters. It operates across Afghanistan and Pakistan. It often recruits fighters from other extremist organizations.
The report identifies Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan as the deadliest group within Pakistan. It has an estimated strength of 2,500 to 5,000 fighters. The group aims to overthrow the Pakistani government and impose strict Islamic law. It has carried out repeated attacks on civilians and security forces. This internal threat has created serious challenges for Pakistan. The government must deal with rising violence at home while facing global criticism over terror safe havens.
The report comes at a time of ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. India has long accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism. The latest findings may strengthen India’s position in international discussions. At the same time, the report shows that Pakistan itself faces severe threats. The presence of multiple militant groups fuels instability across the region. Security experts warn that these networks have global links. This increases the risk of terrorism beyond South Asia. It also makes counterterrorism efforts more complex.
The Congressional Research Service provides independent analysis to lawmakers in the United States. Its reports help shape policy decisions but do not represent official government positions.
