In a strong endorsement of India’s counter-terrorism efforts and diplomatic restraint, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles praised the Indian government’s decision to halt military operations after Operation Sindoor, calling it an “act of Indian leadership” and acknowledging the complexity behind such a move.

In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18’s Zakka Jacob, Marles reflected on the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam — an assault that killed 26 tourists, including 25 Indians and one Nepali national. “We met the news of what happened in Pahalgam with utter shock,” said Marles, adding that Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had reached out to PM Narendra Modi shortly after the incident to personally convey condolences.

“This was an appalling attack,” Marles stated. “Even today, we reiterated that solidarity. We stand with India and with all countries to combat terrorism, and we want to continue to work with India in combating terrorism in all its forms around the world.”

India responded to the attack with Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The operation led to the elimination of over 100 terrorists and was followed by a ceasefire agreement on May 10 between India and Pakistan.

Marles stressed that the decision to cease military activity should not be seen as a retreat but rather as a display of maturity and leadership. “We do acknowledge and welcome the stoppage in military activity. We actually see that as an act of Indian leadership,” he noted. “It was not an easy decision,” he added, underlining the difficulty of pausing retaliatory measures amid heightened tensions.

When asked if the world sometimes overlooks the provocation behind India’s military actions, Marles reaffirmed, “We see that there was an act of terror that we condemn, and in simple terms, we stand with India as we stand with all countries seeking to combat terrorism.”

On the issue of India’s right to defend itself, Marles was clear in his support. “Our Prime Minister very quickly extended his condolences and shock over the incident and the loss of lives,” he said. “We stand with India in its right to protect its citizens and territory.”

As the conversation turned to international perspectives, Marles dismissed speculative claims — such as former US President Donald Trump’s past statements about mediating between India and Pakistan — saying, “Every country has an interest in living in a peaceful world. We all appreciate the stoppage in the military activity, and we do acknowledge that this was an act of Indian leadership.”

Marles’ comments underscore Australia’s firm position on terrorism and its strategic alignment with India. His remarks also reflect growing international recognition of New Delhi’s evolving military doctrine — one that pairs tactical precision with calibrated diplomacy.