The ISI has been setting up covert operation desks in different countries, following a similar strategy used in Sri Lanka 14 years ago. These desks aim to establish modules for covert operations, with recent efforts seen in South India. The ISI has sought assistance from Turkey’s National Intelligence Organisation to establish these desks, with plans for a Moscow Desk in Russia to target Indian interests.
The ISI is also planning similar desks in Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, with a focus on the southern part of India. These efforts come as splinter groups of Al Qaeda and the Islamic State gain influence in the region, primarily operating online. Brigadier Muhammad Asif Khan and two other senior-ranking Pakistani army officers have been appointed to oversee the setting up of these desks.
These desks are not limited to setting up modules and carrying out attacks but also involve gathering sensitive information from the target countries. Members of these desks are tasked with infiltrating the intelligence agencies of the respective countries, indicating a broader strategic agenda. The success of the Dhaka desk in Bangladesh raises concerns about the potential impact of these operations, especially with recent political changes in the country.
