In a major victory for counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, Indian security forces have completely dismantled a notorious seven-member Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) module, self-styled as the “Israel Group.” The culmination of the 18-month-long mission, codenamed Operation Trashi-I, was announced by top officials on February 23, 2026, following a final high-altitude encounter in the rugged Chatroo forest belt of Kishtwar district.
The final phase of the operation began on January 14, 2026, fueled by precise intelligence from the J&K Police and the Intelligence Bureau. Over several weeks of “hot pursuit” through freezing temperatures, landslides, and dense forest, the joint team—comprising the Army’s White Knight Corps, the CRPF, and Special Operations Groups—engaged the group in six separate encounters. The mission reached its peak on February 22, when security forces cornered the remaining three terrorists, including the top commander known as Saifullah, inside a nomadic mud hut (dhok). After a fierce gunfight that saw the hideout catch fire, all three were eliminated.
This group had first infiltrated in April 2024 and was responsible for multiple deadly attacks, including the killing of nine security personnel over the past year and a half. Major General A.P.S. Bal described the mission as a “battle of nerves” that required exceptional perseverance. He highlighted the use of modern technology, including real-time drone surveillance and night-vision equipment, to prevent the terrorists from escaping the defined geographical area. A special mention was also made of Tyson, an Army-trained dog from the 2 Para Special Forces, who was injured while heroically initiating the final assault by entering the terrorists’ hideout.
With the neutralization of all seven members of the “Israel Group,” officials declared the Kishtwar and Doda regions of the Chenab Valley free of foreign infiltrators. Inspector General of Police Bhim Sen Tuti emphasized that this success was largely due to the “well-knit intelligence grid” and the support of local civilians who provided critical leads. While the core module has been wiped out, security agencies have vowed to continue their crackdown on the local support ecosystem and collaborators who provided shelter to the group during their 18-month stay.
